According to a declassified CIA intelligence report from June 17, 1997: “As of early 1996, the Egyptian al-Gama’at al Islamiyya (IG) received funding from a number of donors, including Islamic extremist financier Usama (Bin Ladin). [Redacted] Bin Ladin receives donations on behalf of the IG from wealthy donors. [Redacted] Bin Ladin, himself, provides the IG with operational funds. This money is used specifically to mount terrorist attacks.”
– CIA, “Terrorism: Usama Bin Ladin’s Financial Support to the Egyptian Al-Gama’at Al-Islamiyya, as well as Algerian and Libyan Extremists,” (CIA Intelligence Report), The Central Intelligence Agency’s 9/11 File:, The National Security Archive, June 17, 1997