FBI cracks down on Pro-Iranian hackers after Stryker cyberattacks

One site had been used by Handala to publicize hacks, while the other was used to dox dozens of individuals allegedly connected to Israeli defense contractors, including Elbit Systems and NSO Group. Both sites now display a banner announcing the federal seizure.

U.S. authorities indicated that the domains were believed to be operated in coordination with a foreign state actor. “Law enforcement authorities determined this domain was used to conduct, facilitate, or support malicious cyber activities on behalf of, or in coordination with, a foreign state actor,” the seizure notice read.

In response, Handala condemned the action on its official Telegram channel, calling the seizure a “desperate attempt to silence our voice” and asserting that the group’s mission will continue despite the disruption.

The group’s statements frame the FBI’s move as censorship, while U.S. authorities said the action was taken to disrupt ongoing malicious operations and prevent further exploitation.