The Federal Bureau of Investigation has seized more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, the Justice Department announced Tuesday as part of a broader operation targeting the group's digital fundraising and recruitment efforts.

In addition to the cryptocurrency seizures directed at support for Hamas' military wing, known as the Qassam Brigades, authorities took control of website domains and communication platforms used for raising funds and recruiting supporters. Investigators also obtained information on thousands of individuals who had contacted the group with the intention of providing financial support.

Officials Detail the Scope of the Disruption

Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, addressed the operation in a video statement. She stated that the effort aimed to undermine the group's capacity to finance its activities through digital means.

Brett Leatherman, an FBI assistant director overseeing the bureau's cyber division, said the agency remains focused on intercepting illicit funds. He noted that the bureau will continue applying its authorities to stop terrorist organizations from using digital networks to support operations.

How the Fundraising Effort Developed

FBI affidavits filed in connection with the seizures describe how Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising around early 2019 through the Qassam Brigades. The group solicited donations via its Telegram channel and other online methods. Officials associated with the effort promoted the currency as difficult to trace, while linked websites provided instructions on how to make anonymous contributions.

A significant advance in the investigation occurred last year. FBI personnel identified a financing network that was seeking donations for the Qassam Brigades through virtual currency. A confidential source based in the United States then alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post that requested contributions directed to an email address linked to Hamas.

The Justice Department described the overall operation as involving three main elements: the seizure of cryptocurrency destined for the group, control over online platforms used for fundraising and recruitment, and the collection of data connected to thousands of potential supporters.

Hamas officials could not immediately be reached for comment on the announcements.