Italian law enforcement agencies announced the arrest of nine individuals on accusations of funneling substantial funds to the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The counterterrorism operation, led by anti-mafia and anti-terrorism units in Genoa, took place on Saturday. According to prosecutors, the suspects exploited humanitarian aid campaigns to covertly transfer money to Hamas.
Investigators confiscated assets exceeding €8 million linked to the network, which is believed to have been active for years. The financial irregularities predate the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The suspects were predominantly associated with three charities based in Italy, ostensibly aimed at aiding Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
These organizations allegedly gathered donations under the pretense of humanitarian aid, but a probe revealed that over 71% of the funds, approximately €7 million over a two-year span, were redirected to entities affiliated with Hamas. The Italian State Police stated that donations meant for Gaza's civilian populace were significantly diverted to Hamas' military wing and to support families of suicide bombers and detainees involved in terrorism.
The centralized operation in Genoa was found to have extensions to Milan and international connections, with Dutch authorities also collaborating in the investigation. Eurojust, the European Union’s judicial cooperation unit, played a pivotal role in coordinating the operation.
Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, was among those arrested. His organization allegedly acted as a financial channel to Hamas, under the cover of civilian support. The money was reportedly transferred to Hamas-linked associations within Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The individuals now face charges of financing terrorism under Italian legislation. If found guilty, they could receive substantial prison terms. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni lauded the arrests as a significant development, emphasizing the seriousness of terrorism financing hidden behind charitable organizations.
Authorities have issued a warning to donors to exercise caution regarding the destinations of their contributions. The investigation remains ongoing, with the possibility of further arrests and asset seizures. Italian officials reiterated their stance that humanitarian aid should not be exploited to fund violence, stating, "Charity will never be allowed to serve as a shield for terrorism."
The case underscores the complex challenges authorities face in distinguishing legitimate humanitarian efforts from those that may serve as fronts for extremist funding.
