In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Italian authorities have apprehended seven individuals suspected of funnelling millions of euros to the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The police also issued international arrest warrants for two other suspects believed to be outside the country.
Charities Allegedly Used as a Front
According to a police statement released on Saturday, the investigation centres on three associations. While these groups were officially registered as organisations supporting Palestinian civilians, authorities allege they served as a front for channelling funds to Hamas. The nine individuals are accused of financing roughly seven million euros (approximately $8 million) to entities in Gaza, the Palestinian territories, or Israel that are owned, controlled, or linked to the Islamist movement.
Humanitarian Pretext for Terror Funding
Police revealed that the stated goal of the three associations was to collect donations for humanitarian aid for the Palestinian people. However, investigators found that more than 71 per cent of the funds were directed toward the direct financing of Hamas or its affiliates. A portion of the money even reached "family members implicated in terrorist attacks," the statement clarified.
Key Arrest and Official Reaction
Media reports identified one of those arrested as Mohammad Hannoun, the president of the Palestinian Association in Italy. Reacting to the operation, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated on social media platform X that the crackdown "lifted the veil on behaviour and activities which, pretending to be initiatives in favour of the Palestinian population, concealed support for and participation in terrorist organisations."
This operation underscores ongoing international efforts to dismantle financial networks that allegedly support militant activities under the guise of charitable work.
