Five individuals linked to the French associations Humani’Terre and Soutien Humani’Terre were formally charged on February 20 as part of an anti-terrorism investigation into suspected financial flows benefiting Hamas, according to information revealed by Le Figaro.
The proceedings, initiated by the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT), include charges of financing a terrorist enterprise, organized breach of trust, and money laundering in connection with a terrorist organization. The five individuals have been placed under judicial supervision.
According to investigating magistrates, the associations — described by intelligence services as being close to the Muslim Brotherhood movement — allegedly transferred funds to Hamas under the guise of humanitarian aid intended for the Palestinian territories.
The investigation, opened on November 3, 2023, involved the anti-terrorism section of the Paris criminal brigade, the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), and the Central Office for the Repression of Major Financial Crime.
Searches conducted in January 2024 at the associations’ headquarters and at the homes of current and former officials led to the seizure of computer equipment, accounting documents, and significant sums of money. Investigators reportedly identified nearly €35 million across various association bank accounts, as well as more than €5 million in cash distributed among several local branches. Two buildings located in Paris and La Courneuve were also seized.
The associations strongly deny any wrongdoing and describe the accusations as unfounded. The case is nevertheless expected to reignite debate in France over the oversight of nonprofit funding channels and the alleged links between certain domestic organizations and groups designated as terrorist organizations by the European Union, including Hamas.
