Israel says Iran is running Hamas financial network through Gazans in Turkey
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Israel has claimed that Iran is directing a Hamas financial network operating from inside Turkey, moving hundreds of millions of dollars to the group through Gazans living there.
The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet said the network is run by Gazans who receive Iranian funds, store them, and transfer them directly to Hamas.
IDF Arabic spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee said the agencies have revealed documents showing the existence of an Iranian-controlled money exchange system inside Turkey. He said the network uses Turkey's financial infrastructure to move large sums to Hamas leaders and operatives.
According to Israeli authorities, the documents show that the operation is managed by Gazans based in Turkey who work in cooperation with Iran. They said the money transfer system channels funds straight to Hamas operatives. Officials added that the documents show only a small part of the total transfers, with amounts reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The IDF and Shin Bet warned that Hamas continues to plan attacks against Israel with Iranian support and is working to rebuild its capabilities outside Gaza. They said Hamas remains active despite the damage in the Gaza Strip.
Israeli officials identified three key figures in the network. They named Tamer Hassan, a senior Hamas finance official in Turkey who reports to Khalil al Hayya. They also named Khalil Fraoneh and Farid Abu Dayer, who operate as money changers inside the network.
Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, criticised Iran. He said the Iranian regime is deeply involved in terrorism and corruption. He also questioned Turkey’s role, saying Hamas agents in the country are helping move funds for terrorist activities.