Italian authorities have arrested nine people linked to three charitable organisations on suspicion of secretly financing the Palestinian militant group Hamas, anti-terrorism prosecutors confirmed on Saturday.
According to a statement from prosecutors, the suspects allegedly transferred approximately €7 million (about $8.2 million) to organisations in Gaza, the Palestinian territories, and Israel that were either owned, controlled, or closely linked to Hamas. The group is officially designated as a terrorist organisation by the European Union.
Alleged Head of Hamas Cell in Italy Arrested
Among those arrested is Mohammad Hannoun, identified by prosecutors as the president of the Palestinian Association in Italy. Authorities described Hannoun as the alleged leader of an Italian Hamas cell, accusing him of coordinating fundraising and financial transfers on behalf of the organisation.
Italian prosecutors said the investigation was carried out in collaboration with other European Union countries, highlighting the cross-border nature of the alleged funding network.
Complex Funding Methods Uncovered
Investigators allege that the funds were moved using “triangulation operations”, a method involving indirect bank transfers and foreign-based intermediary organisations. The money was reportedly routed to associations in Gaza that have been declared illegal by Israel due to their alleged ties to Hamas.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said the operation exposed activities that were disguised as humanitarian aid.
“This operation lifted the veil on behaviour and activities which, pretending to support the Palestinian population, actually concealed support for and participation in terrorist organisations,” Piantedosi wrote on X.
No Immediate Response From Suspects
There was no immediate comment from the suspects or the charitable organisations named in the investigation. Legal proceedings are expected to follow as prosecutors continue to analyse financial records and international links.
Wider EU Crackdown on Terror Financing
The arrests come amid a broader European effort to curb terror financing. In January 2024, the European Council extended sanctions against 12 individuals and three entities accused of supporting the financing of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
Authorities across the EU have increasingly warned that militant groups exploit humanitarian and charitable structures to move funds internationally under the guise of aid.
