Revived Probe Eyes 80 Charities' Ties to Terrorism

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Byline: Jerry Seper, THE WASHINGTON TIMES

A 1995 federal task force investigation identified 80 U.S.-based charities suspected of diverting cash to Islamic terrorists overseas before the probe was shut down by the Clinton administration, federal officials said.

Investigators believe millions of dollars were funneled out of the United States to fund terrorist operations, paying for training, equipment, weapons and safe haven.

"Closing down the 1995 investigation was purely a political decision," said one federal agent who asked not to be identified. "The administration was concerned the Saudis would be embarrassed. There was no doubt the Saudis were …