Over 100 Binance Accounts Closed by Israeli Authorities Over Suspicion of Facilitating Funding to Hamas: Report

Top global crypto exchange Binance has reportedly closed more than 100 accounts in response to Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel earlier this month.

According to a recent report from the Financial Times, which cited “people directly familiar with Israel’s enforcement actions,” Israeli law enforcement agencies ordered the closures and seized millions worth of crypto in an effort to cut funding to the Palestinian Islamist group.

Hamas has previously asked its supporters to send Bitcoin (BTC) in an effort to evade US sanctions.

The FT’s sources also reported that Israeli authorities have asked for info on up to 200 additional crypto accounts. The majority of those accounts were also reportedly set up on Binance.

Binance confirmed in a statement to the FT that it had blocked “a small number” of accounts.

On Monday, Tether, the issuer of the top stablecoin USDT, announced that it had frozen 32 addresses “linked to terrorism and warfare in Israel and Ukraine.” The addresses reportedly contained more than $870,000.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino argues that crypto isn’t a tool for criminals.

“Tether remains committed to promoting responsible blockchain technology use and standing as a robust defense against cybercrime. We eagerly anticipate continued collaboration with global law enforcement agencies as part of our commitment to global security and financial integrity.”

Generated Image: Midjourney