Hamas’ Global Network of Funding: From Iran to Turkey
As tensions between Israel and Palestine continue to escalate, a closer look at the financial backing of Hamas reveals a complex web of funding sources and methods that span the globe.
The Rise of Iranian Support
According to testimony by expert Matthew Levitt, Iranian support for Hamas has increased significantly since the group’s formation in 1987. Today, U.S. and Israeli officials estimate that Iran provides Hamas between $70 million to $100 million annually.
A Global Network of Funding Sources
But Iran is not the only country supporting Hamas. Qatar, Turkey, Lebanon, Gaza Strip and West Bank, Syria, Sudan, and Kuwait have all been linked to the group’s funding efforts.
Funding Methods: From Front Companies to Cryptocurrency
Hamas uses a variety of methods to receive funds, including:
- Front companies: The group has established front companies to disguise its financial activities.
- Charities: Hamas has used charities to launder money and funnel funds into its coffers.
- Cryptocurrency donations: The group has been known to accept cryptocurrency donations.
Exploiting the Global Financial System
In addition, Hamas has exploited the global financial system by using legitimate businesses and organizations to funnel funds into its coffers. This includes:
- International wire transfers
- Cash transactions
- Other forms of money movement
Regional Risks: A Global Problem
To combat the funding efforts of Hamas, financial institutions and law enforcement agencies must be aware of the group’s global connections and tactics.
Red Flags: Identifying Suspicious Transactions
Financial institutions can use a range of red flags to identify suspicious transactions and potentially funding Hamas, including:
- Multiple personal and business accounts
- Foreign exchange transactions followed by funds transfers to higher-risk locations
- Insurance policy loans or policy surrender values subject to a substantial surrender charge
- Multiple accounts used to funnel funds to a small number of foreign beneficiaries
The Battle Against Terror Finance
The fight against terror finance is a global effort that requires coordination and cooperation between governments, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies. By understanding the tactics and methods used by Hamas to fund its activities, we can better combat this threat and protect our communities from harm.
Regional Risks Rising: A Global Problem
As tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, the global community must remain vigilant against the funding efforts of Hamas. By understanding the group’s connections across the globe and its use of front companies, charities, and other tactics, we can better combat this threat and protect our communities from harm.
Conclusion: A Global Problem Requires a Global Response
The fight against terror finance is a global effort that requires coordination and cooperation between governments, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies. By understanding the tactics and methods used by Hamas to fund its activities, we can better combat this threat and protect our communities from harm.
In conclusion, the funding efforts of Hamas are a global problem that requires a global response. We must remain vigilant against this threat and work together to combat it.