The New York City Police Department (NYPD) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have ramped up their investigation into the terrorist organization Hamas following the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, according to reports.
The NYPD’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, in conjunction with the FBI, is preparing to investigate the financial backers of Hamas. The task force is also looking for possible threats to the Big Apple.
“We have had an investigation into anyone funding Hamas for a long time,” the source, described as a high-ranking official in the police department, told The New York Post. “Clearly, we have been looking more closely since 10/7.”
This comes after FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress that the bureau has launched “multiple investigations into individuals affiliated” with Hamas since the deadly attack on Israel but has not found any specific threats.
“Since Oct. 7, we’ve seen a rogue’s gallery of foreign terrorist organizations call for attacks against Americans and our allies,” Wray told the House Homeland Security Committee.
“Given those calls for action, our most immediate concern is that individuals or small groups will draw twisted inspiration from the events in the Middle East to carry out attacks here at home,” he continued.
Earlier in October, the Iran-backed Hamas attacked Israel and invaded towns along the Gaza border, killing at least 700 people. The death toll has so far risen to 1,200, according to Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus.
The attack prompted Israel to declare war against the terrorist group with a ruthless aerial campaign that has flattened homes, schools, medical institutions, and government buildings in the Gaza Strip. Yet, protesters insist on a ceasefire even though Israel has no choice but to defend itself.
President Joe Biden has since pledged his support for Israel, with his administration already moving military units to the country as well as supplying them with munitions and interceptors to ensure the Iron Dome defense system has enough supplies.
“We stand with Israel. We stand with Israel. And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself, and respond to this attack,” he said in remarks days following the attack. “There is no justification for terrorism. There is no excuse.”
