Italian law enforcement agencies have executed a major counter-terrorism operation resulting in the arrest of nine individuals allegedly involved in financing Hamas operations. According to official police statements, the network orchestrated an elaborate fundraising scheme that collected approximately €7 million (£6 million) over a two-year period under the guise of humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians.
The investigation, launched following the October 7th, 2023 Hamas attacks in southern Israel, uncovered a sophisticated financial infrastructure headquartered in Genoa with operational branches extending to Milan. Police analysis of suspicious transaction reports revealed that over 71% of donations intended for Gaza’s civilian population were systematically diverted to Hamas’s military wing and to support families of suicide bombers and detained terrorists.
In addition to the arrests, authorities have seized assets exceeding €8 million (£7 million) as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspects face specific charges related to financing operations believed to have directly supported terrorist activities.
The operation represents a collaborative effort between Italy’s specialized counter-terrorism units and financial police agencies. Among those detained is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, who has previously denied allegations of Hamas financing connections.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi acknowledged the police operation’s success while emphasizing that “the presumption of innocence… must always be recognized at this stage” of judicial proceedings. The case highlights ongoing international efforts to combat terrorist financing networks operating under humanitarian disguises.