The U.S. sanctioned three people and two charities as six suspects were arrested.
Why it matters: The action combines sanctions, criminal charges and arrests to pressure Hamas's financing network. It also highlights how investigators are scrutinizing charitable appeals and cryptocurrency transfers.
- Treasury said the network collected more than $2 million for Hamas from 2020 through 2026.
- About $1.5 million was allegedly collected after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
- OFAC designated Saleem Abdallah Saleem al-Zaq, Faouzi Barika, Amel Oualid and two France-based charities.
- Six people were arrested: three in the United States and three in France.
The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Hamas military-wing member Saleem Abdallah Saleem al-Zaq, France-based individuals Faouzi Barika and Amel Oualid, and the charities Association Baraka and Ensemble C Mieux on October 2, 2026. Treasury said the network collected more than $2 million for Hamas between 2020 and 2026, including approximately $1.5 million after October 7, 2023.
Treasury alleged that Barika and Oualid operated purported humanitarian charities that transferred money to al-Zaq, who allegedly funneled it to Hamas. The network also allegedly used cryptocurrency, with the two France-based fundraisers sending hundreds of thousands of dollars in digital assets to al-Zaq. Association Baraka was jointly established by Barika and al-Zaq; Oualid established Ensemble C Mieux. OFAC designated both charities as entities owned, controlled or directed by designated persons.
The Justice Department unsealed an indictment charging al-Zaq and announced arrests of Omar Adhami, Abdel Adhami and Raed Yousef in the United States. French authorities arrested Barika, Oualid and Nordine Barika. Prosecutors allege al-Zaq raised more than $1.7 million through campaigns presented as humanitarian aid for people in Gaza.
Sanctions generally block designated persons' property within U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit U.S. persons from transacting with them. The criminal charges remain allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
By the numbers
- $2 million-plus - funds Treasury said the broader network collected for Hamas
- $1.5 million - amount Treasury said was collected after October 7, 2023
- 642 - suspicious-activity reports cited in Treasury's 2026 terrorist-financing risk assessment
Yes, but: Treasury and DOJ figures differ: Treasury described more than $2 million collected by the broader network, while DOJ separately alleged that al-Zaq collected more than $1.7 million. The allegations have not been adjudicated, and no public response from the defendants, charities or Hamas was identified.