Indiana University’s Muslim Philanthropy Initiative reportedly co-organized fundraising training events with Hayat Yolu, a Turkish nonprofit recently sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department for alleged ties to Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood. The designation by Treasury officials identified Hayat Yolu as part of a covert global network raising funds under the guise of humanitarian aid, with proceeds supporting Hamas’ military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
Fundraising Trainings Led by Indiana University Faculty
The fundraising trainings, held in Istanbul in July 2025 and Jakarta in January 2026, were primarily led by Indiana University assistant professor Dr. Shariq A. Siddiqui. According to reports from RRI and LinkedIn posts, the sessions aimed to teach advanced fundraising and management techniques, intending that attendees would replicate the methods in their home countries. The Jakarta event drew 86 participants from Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, and Singapore. The curriculum focused initially on systematic and professional fundraising before shifting to leadership and volunteer management.
U.S. Treasury Sanctions and Government Statements
On March 12, 2026, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent issued a statement emphasizing that Hamas exploits charitable organizations to finance its terrorist operations. The Department of the Treasury’s designation of Hayat Yolu highlighted its role as a financial hub supporting Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood. Secretary Bessent stated the Treasury would continue to target such networks “wherever they operate.”
Institutional Responses and Reporting
Indiana University’s involvement was confirmed through event materials and participant accounts, though the university had not provided a public response as of this report. Fox News Digital reached out to Indiana University for further comment. The allegations arise amid increased scrutiny of charitable groups linked to terrorism financing globally.
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