The Prosecutor General of the United States, Pam Bondihe announced yesterday the creation of the “JTF 10-7”, a joint task force that brings together several agencies of intelligence and American law enforcement agencies. The aim of the initiative is to guarantee justice to the victims of the terrorist attack of 7 October 2023 in Israel, to contrast Hamas and his affiliates, as well as fighting anti -Semitic terrorism and violations of civil rights in the United States. This Task Force, the first of its kind after the massacre of October 7, 2023, is based on the previous operations of the law enforcement and the US intelligence. Its action is part of the context of the recent incrimination and the request for extradition made by the United States against Hamas leaders including those who live outside the Gaza Strip. The attack of 7 October 2023, in which Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic jihad And other terrorist groups have launched a coordinated assault in the south of Israel, He caused about 1,200 deaths, including 47 US citizens, and the kidnapping of over 200 hostages, including eight Americans.
A memorandum that describes in detail the initiative states that the division for national security of the Department of Justice is leading investigations into:
• Hamas leadership and authors of the attack on October 7th
• the United Nations Agency for rescue and employment (UNRWA)
• individuals and entities based in the United States that finance Hamas
The creation of the Jtf 10-7 It could have significant implications for US policy towards countries such as Qatar and Türkiye, where Hamas operates with silent approval. In addition, it could affect the financial institutions involved in Hamas transactions and influence civil causes against Hamas, Iran and the affiliated entities. After the events of 7 October 2023, when Hamas launched a massive attack against Israel, causing numerous victims between civilians and military, international attention focused on the role of Qatar in supporting the Palestinian movement. The Qatar It is known to host Hamas leaders and to provide financial support to the group. However, despite these reports, civil cases intended against Qatar are not currently in relation to the events of 7 October. The international community has often maintained diplomatic and commercial relations with Qatar, recognizing its role as a mediator in the region and its influence on groups such as Hamas. For example, Qatar is playing a key role in the mediation for the release of hostages held by Hamas. This diplomatic position could explain the absence of civil legal actions against Qatar by individuals or states after the events of 7 October. But all this could change quickly.
This Task Force represents a significant escalation in the efforts of the United States to dismantle Hamas’ global networks and bring those who support terrorist activities to justice. Under the Biden administration, the Department of Justice presented criminal accusations against Hamas leaders for the killings and kidnappings of 7 October. The case was filed with a New York Federal Court in February 2024 and made public in September. It is believed that four of the six defendants were killed by Israel but with the advent of the new administration Trump It is certain that the legal actions and arrest mandates will grow exponentially.
