US Charges Senior Hamas Leaders with Terrorism and Murder in Connection with October 2023 Attacks on Israel
The United States Justice Department has filed criminal charges against six senior Hamas leaders, accusing them of terrorism, murder conspiracy, and sanctions evasion in connection with the deadly attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, CBS News reports.
The charges, unsealed on Tuesday, allege that the defendants played a key role in planning and executing the attacks, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people, including at least 43 American citizens. The defendants are identified as:
• Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas
• Ismail Haniyeh, former chairman of Hamas’s Politburo (deceased)
• Mohammad Al-Masri, commander-in-chief of the al-Qassam Brigades (deceased)
• Marwan Issa, deputy commander of the al-Qassam Brigades (deceased)
• Khaled Meshaal, head of Hamas’ diaspora office
• Ali Baraka, Hamas’ head of National Relations Abroad
The charging documents detail the defendants’ involvement in the attacks, including their roles in planning, financing, and carrying out the operation. They also highlight Hamas’ ties to Iran and Hezbollah, accusing the defendants of orchestrating and financing an international terror campaign.
The charges, filed in February in a federal court in New York City, were kept under seal until now. The Justice Department revealed that the decision to unseal the charges was made following the death of Ismail Haniyeh and recent developments in the region.
The charges come amidst a complex and volatile situation in the Middle East, with the Israeli military conducting a military operation in Gaza following Hamas’ attacks. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides.