Full Breakdown
U.S. Sanctions Target Nonprofits Linked to Hamas
1/21/2026, 7:58:10 PM
Overview of Sanctions Against Hamas-Linked Organizations
On January 21, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against six Gaza-based nonprofit organizations for their covert ties to Hamas. The designated organizations—Waed Society Gaza, Al-Nur Society Gaza, Qawafil Society Gaza, Al-Falah Society Gaza, Merciful Hands Gaza, and Al-Salameh Society Gaza—are accused of being integrated into Hamas's military wing and facilitating the diversion of humanitarian funds to support terrorist activities.
Evidence of Covert Operations
The sanctions were informed by documentary evidence obtained from Hamas offices after October 7, 2023. These documents reveal that the organizations operate under the guise of providing humanitarian aid while actually supporting Hamas's military objectives. For instance, the Waed Society is reported to receive direct funding from Hamas to advocate for fighters captured by Israeli forces and to execute specific projects aligned with Hamas's goals. Similarly, Al-Nur and Al-Falah have been implicated in transferring funds directly to the Hamas military wing, with Al-Falah reportedly transferring over $2.5 million over a three-year period.
Implications of the Sanctions
The sanctions freeze any assets held by these organizations in the U.S. and prohibit U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with them. Violations of these sanctions could lead to criminal penalties. The Treasury aims to disrupt covert financing channels and enhance oversight of charitable networks, thereby strengthening the international community's ability to support legitimate Palestinian interests.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the sanctions argue that they may hinder legitimate humanitarian efforts in Gaza. While the U.S. government emphasizes the need to prevent funds from reaching terrorist organizations, some humanitarian groups express concern that these measures could inadvertently affect the delivery of essential aid to the Palestinian people. The U.S. Treasury has stated that it does not sanction individuals for engaging in activities protected by U.S. constitutional rights, such as free speech and religious practices.
Official Statements
John K. Hurley, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, stated, “Hamas continues to show a callous disregard for the welfare of the Palestinian people. The Trump Administration will not look the other way while Hamas leadership and enablers exploit the financial system to fund terrorist operations.” The Treasury's actions are framed as part of a broader strategy to safeguard humanitarian aid while combating the financing of terrorism.
What's Next
The U.S. government has indicated that it will continue to monitor and sanction organizations that are found to be supporting Hamas or other terrorist entities. The ongoing situation in Gaza remains complex, with international efforts focused on stabilizing the region while addressing the humanitarian needs of its population.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Hamas continues to show a callous disregard for the welfare of the Palestinian people,” — John K. Hurley, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence
- “The Trump Administration will not look the other way while Hamas leadership and enablers exploit the financial system to fund terrorist operations.” — John K. Hurley, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence
- “The United States will use all available tools to expose and disrupt the deceitful practices that these entities and individuals use to raise funds,” — Tommy Pigott, State Department Spokesman
