UK watchdog probes prominent Islamic aid charity over Hamas connections, funding

The UK Charity Commission has launched a statutory inquiry into the prominent Islamic aid charity Al-Khair Foundation following allegations of connections to and funding of Hamas. This investigation follows the arrest and extradition to the US of Mohammad Yousef Hasna, an Al-Khair employee, who is charged with conspiring to provide material support to Hamas. The US Department of Justice identified a “Sham Charity” in its indictment, which The Telegraph identified as Al-Khair. The charity's gross income reportedly “nearly doubled following the October 7 Hamas Massacres,” rising from £31.28m to £74.79m. The Commission has issued a legal order restricting certain financial transactions by Al-Khair without prior consent. Counter Terror Policing London has also confirmed investigations, executing two search warrants. Al-Khair Foundation stated it is cooperating fully, asserting, "Everywhere we work, we are firmly committed to ensuring that the funds entrusted to us by our generous donors are used for their intended purpose."