A New York woman, Catherine Beth Washburn, has been arrested for allegedly supporting a Palestinian terrorist organization. Washburn, 37, from Irondequoit, a suburb of Rochester, is accused of attempting to provide material support to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), which is designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
If convicted, Washburn faces a potential 20-year federal prison sentence and a $250,000 fine.
According to the Justice Department, Washburn led the radical group Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL). This organization emerged after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel. DAMPL reportedly opposes peaceful protests, preferring “direct action,” such as property destruction and sabotage against entities linked to Israel.
Catherine Beth Washburn pictured with two hand grenades in front of Hamas flag. (DOJ)
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force obtained communications purportedly between Washburn and someone claiming to be an active PIJ fighter in Gaza. In these exchanges, Washburn allegedly expressed hatred towards Jewish people and wished for Israel’s demise.
Washburn is accused of conveying her excitement over attacks on Israeli soldiers, writing, “I wish every day were October 7th.” She also mentioned her willingness to fight alongside resistance forces if she lived in Gaza.
U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo stated that Washburn’s actions were fueled by a strong animosity towards Israel and Jewish people. Financial records indicate that Washburn sent around 80 cryptocurrency transfers, amounting to over $30,000, to an account used by the PIJ fighter.
In one message from November 2025, Washburn joked about her illegal activities, suggesting that her past fundraising and posts could lead to multiple life sentences, even including a laughing emoji.
Catherine Beth Washburn is accused of texting with a terrorist and transferring funds. (Fox News, File)
Acting Assistant Director Coult Markovsky of the FBI Counterterrorism Division emphasized the commitment to holding individuals accountable for aiding violent organizations. He stressed that the FBI, alongside the Justice Department, will work tirelessly to stop the funding of terrorist groups. Anyone involved in supporting such organizations will face consequences within the justice system.