Israel arrests suspected Hamas fundraisers

Israeli authorities have arrested several Hamas members on suspicion of raising funds from abroad for activities in Jerusalem, officials said Tuesday. The suspected Hamas officials were charged with money laundering, being active in a "terror" organization and using property for "terrorist" purposes, Israel's Ynet news site reported. "The activities were aimed at creating solidarity with Hamas, thereby strengthening its presence and position among the east Jerusalem population," the report quoted Shin Bet officials as saying. The suspects were identified as Yakub Abu Atzav, 39, of the Old City, Kafeh Sarhan, 41, of Silwan, Ahmed Alian, 35, of Beit Safafa, Fouad Hamadia, 42, of Wadi Joz, and Ashraf Ashur, 33, of Ras al-Amud. According to the report, the men transferred about $600,000 to Hamas from abroad. This was accomplished through several fake contracts and other economic offenses, Israeli officials allege.