In the context of counterterrorism, what is the legal significance of 'material support'?

The legal significance of 'material support' in counterterrorism is that it is a federal crime to knowingly provide any form of assistance to a designated foreign terrorist organization. This is codified in 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. 'Material support' is broadly defined to include a wide range of resources, such as money, training, expert advice or assistance, safe houses, transportation, communications equipment, and personnel. It doesn't matter if the support is intended to be used for violent activities; providing any support to a designated terrorist group is illegal. The law is designed to disrupt the flow of resources to terrorist organizations and prevent individuals from aiding their activities, even if the individual doesn't directly participate in terrorist attacks. The Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of material support laws, recognizing their importance in combating terrorism.