(JNS.org) Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) said Thursday it has not found any evidence of Australian government funds granted to the Christian charity World Vision being channeled to the Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas.

The Australian announcement follows the recent suspension of funding by Australia and Germany to World Vision, due to an investigation by Israeli authorities that led to World Vision employee Mohammad El-Halabi being charged for diverting upwards of $50 million to Gaza-ruling Hamas.

“DFAT has reviewed the management of its funding to World Vision in the Palestinian Territories. The review uncovered nothing to suggest any diversion of government funds,” the Australian government said in a statement. 

Nevertheless, DFAT’s funding to the charity in Gaza will remain suspended “until we have considered the outcomes of the court case against Mr. El-Halabi and reviews being undertaken by World Vision Australia and World Vision International into this issue,” Australia said.

Australia is the largest donor to the Christian charity’s aid efforts in Gaza, and has donated more than $2 million during the past three years.

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