International Relief Fund for the Afflicted and Needy, International Relief Fund for the Afflicted and Needy (Canada), IRFAN, IRFAN – Canada, IRFAN Society1

Canada

IRFAN-Canada is based in the Toronto area.

IRFAN has offices but no paid staff, according to Yavar Hameed, a lawyer for the group.

IRFAN exploits a broad network of private donors and charitable support organizations to raise funds, which are subsequently diverted to listed entities in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

IRFAN’s ideological roots are unclear, however, the Canada Revenue Agency has recovered materials at IRFAN-Canada’s offices that demonize the state of Israel and appeal for Muslims to join the struggle against Israel.

IRFAN’s stated objectives are to provide humanitarian assistance to struggling individuals and communities located in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

Fundraising. Between 2005 and 2011, IRFAN transferred over $14 million to groups associated with Hamas under the guise of humanitarian relief funds. IRFAN is classified as a terrorist organization by the Government of Canada and several other Western countries.