American activist and philanthropist Fergie Chambers has been arrested in Spain on a US extradition request accusing him of international money laundering, riot and conspiracy to riot.
Chambers, an heir to the Cox family fortune known for funding humanitarian projects in Gaza and pro-Palestinian causes, was arrested on Friday in Ibiza. A judge denied him bail pending extradition proceedings.
US prosecutors allege Chambers transferred about $7.5 million out of the United States in 2023 to seek opportunities to provide material support to Hamas. If extradited and convicted on the lead money laundering charge, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
His supporters deny the allegations, saying the funds were used for lawful investments and describing the case as politically motivated.
Chambers has funded humanitarian initiatives in Gaza, including medical care, food distribution, clean water projects and mental health services. British-Palestinian surgeon Ghassan Abu Sitta called him 'a vital supporter' of care for wounded children in Gaza.
Chambers remains in custody in Ibiza while Spain's Audiencia Nacional considers the US extradition request.
