Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals accused of raising approximately €7 million (£6 million) for Hamas over more than two years, according to Italian police. The funds, reportedly collected under the guise of humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians, were allegedly redirected to support Hamas’s military operations and the families of militants.

Details of the Investigation

The arrests were carried out as part of a joint operation between Italy’s counter-terrorism police and financial police. Investigators also seized over €8 million (£7 million) in assets linked to the alleged fundraising network.

Police explained that the investigation began following the Hamas attack in southern Israel on 7 October 2023. Authorities scrutinized a series of suspicious financial transactions involving the suspects, uncovering a complex fundraising system headquartered in Genoa with branches in Milan.

“The suspects collected donations intended for the civilian population of Gaza. However, over 71% of these funds were diverted to Hamas’s coffers to finance its military wing and support the families of suicide bombers or those detained for terrorism,” the statement said.

Key Figures

Among those arrested, Mohammad Hannoun, the president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, is the most prominent. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi praised law enforcement for their efforts, while emphasizing that “the presumption of innocence must always be recognized at this stage.”

Hannoun defended himself, stating:

“I am neither closely nor remotely related to Hamas, but I have always supported them. I have always declared with utmost transparency that I am a Palestinian citizen and publicly support the legitimate resistance of the Palestinian people.”

Legal and Security Implications

The suspects face charges of financing operations believed to have contributed to terrorist activities. If proven, this case represents a significant disruption of Hamas’s European fundraising networks, highlighting ongoing concerns about how militant groups raise funds abroad under the pretext of humanitarian aid.

Authorities say the case demonstrates the importance of monitoring financial transactions linked to suspected terrorist activity and coordinating across law enforcement and financial intelligence units.

Background

Hamas has historically relied on a network of international supporters to fund both its political and military activities. Cases like this in Italy underscore the challenges faced by European governments in tracking terrorist financing while distinguishing legitimate humanitarian assistance.

This investigation is likely to have implications for European anti-terrorism financing regulations, potentially leading to stricter oversight of charitable donations intended for conflict zones.