Palestinian terrorist-linked fundraiser slashed by PayPal amid legal scrutiny
PayPal Shuts Down Gaza Fundraising Account Linked to Terrorist Organization
PayPal has closed a Gaza fundraising account that was benefiting an Israeli-designated terrorist organization, following pressure from a legal watchdog group. The account was associated with the Union of Agricultural Work Committees (UAWC), which has ties to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a designated terrorist group. The Spanish Bizilur Association for Cooperation and Development of Peoples partnered with UAWC on a “#StopGazaStarvation Gaza Relief Campaign.” However, after receiving a warning from the Zachor Legal Institute, PayPal quietly shut down Bizilur’s account. Stripe, another credit card processor, is currently conducting an internal investigation into the campaign.
Cracking Down on Terrorist Financing
The Zachor Legal Institute, a pro-Israel think tank, commended PayPal for taking swift action and called on Stripe to do the same. The institute has been advocating against the use of faux humanitarian groups by designated terror organizations for fundraising purposes. These recent developments highlight the efforts of Palestinian terrorist-tied groups and anti-Israel activists to support Gaza in the wake of the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel.
UAWC’s Troubled History
The UAWC, based in the West Bank, has long been identified as the “agricultural” arm of the PFLP. In 2018, major credit card companies such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express barred UAWC from using their services due to its ties to the PFLP. In 2019, two UAWC staffers were charged with involvement in a PFLP terrorist cell and a roadside bombing that resulted in the death of an Israeli teenager.
Bizilur’s Support and Restrictions
Bizilur, which opposes certain systems, disclosed on its website that donations for the Gaza fundraiser would be sent directly to Palestine, where UAWC operates. The Spanish group explained that UAWC faces restrictions imposed by Israel as an occupying power, preventing it from receiving individual donations directly. However, UAWC can receive donations through NGOs, foundations, and associations.
Concerns and Investigations
Zachor Legal Institute raised concerns with PayPal about the potential funding of terror groups through the Bizilur account. As a result, PayPal removed the profile and disabled donations through its platform. Stripe, on the other hand, is still processing payments for the Gaza fundraiser. The institute also sent a letter to Stripe, prompting an internal investigation. Stripe stated that it would take appropriate action based on the outcome of the review.
Addressing Terror Financing
These incidents shed light on the need for action against the abuse of payment processing systems for terror financing. Lawmakers, such as Rep. Darrell Issa, have called for investigations into platforms that allow terrorist-tied groups to fundraise. Efforts to block payment processors from supporting terrorist factions, including the PFLP, are being pursued by Republican congressional investigators.
It is crucial to address the systemic issue of terror financing and involve Congress in finding comprehensive solutions.
What role do financial institutions play in preventing the flow of funds to terrorist organizations, as demonstrated by PayPal’s actions in response to the Zachor Legal Institute’s warning
Terrorist Ties
The Union of Agricultural Work Committees (UAWC) is a Palestinian non-governmental organization that claims to support farmers and agricultural development in Gaza and the West Bank. However, this organization has longstanding ties to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a terrorist group responsible for numerous attacks on Israelis.
The PFLP is involved in acts of violence, including suicide bombings, hijackings, and assassinations. It rejects the existence of Israel and advocates for its destruction. By association, UAWC’s affiliation with the PFLP raises serious concerns about the activities and intentions of the organization.
#StopGazaStarvation Campaign
In an attempt to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Bizilur Association for Cooperation and Development of Peoples partnered with UAWC on the “#StopGazaStarvation Gaza Relief Campaign.” While it is commendable to extend support to those in need, it is essential to ensure that contributions are not being used to assist terrorist organizations.
The Zachor Legal Institute identified the potential link between UAWC and the PFLP, prompting a warning to PayPal and Stripe. PayPal immediately responded by shutting down Bizilur’s fundraising account. This proactive approach by PayPal sets an example for other financial institutions to take similar measures in preventing the flow of funds to terrorist groups and their affiliates.
The Importance of Vigilance
These actions by PayPal and the ongoing investigation by Stripe highlight the significance of vigilance and due diligence in combating the financing of terror organizations. Financial institutions have a crucial role to play in identifying and preventing the misuse of funds for illicit activities.
The Palestinian territories have long been a breeding ground for terrorist organizations, and it is imperative to ensure that legitimate humanitarian initiatives are not exploited for nefarious purposes.
Conclusion
PayPal’s decision to close the Gaza fundraising account associated with a terrorist organization is a step in the right direction. It sends a clear message that financial institutions will not tolerate the misuse of their services to fund terror activities.
The Zachor Legal Institute’s efforts in raising awareness about the exploitation of humanitarian organizations by terrorist groups are commendable. It is essential for organizations and individuals alike to exercise caution and diligence in their choice of partners and beneficiaries for charitable initiatives to prevent inadvertently supporting terrorism.
As investigations continue, it is crucial for financial institutions and watchdog groups to collaborate and share information to effectively combat terrorist financing. By doing so, we can ensure that legitimate humanitarian efforts are carried out while safeguarding against the misuse of funds that could potentially support acts of terror.
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