The US Treasury’s top terrorism financing official said he had discussed with Turkish government officials his deep concerns about Hamas raising funds in Turkiye and potentially breaking local laws, Reuters reports.

Turkiye is “prominent” in Hamas fundraising schemes and the group is likely to take advantage of that as it seeks more cash amid the conflict in Gaza, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said.

“We are profoundly concerned with Hamas’s ability to continue to fundraise and find financial support (here in Turkiye) for potential future terrorist attacks,” Nelson told reporters in Istanbul between meetings with Turkish government officials and financial and business groups.

Nelson said Turkiye was connected to Hamas’ past efforts to raise funds from donors, investment portfolios, charities and non-profit organisations.