Investigation shows diversion of around 7 million euros raised for humanitarian purposes; Among those detained is the president of a pro-Palestinian association based in Genoa
Italian prosecutors announced this Saturday (27) the arrest of nine people suspected of financing the terrorist group Hamas through charities in Italy. The operation was conducted by anti-mafia and anti-terrorism units, with support from investigative bodies from other European Union countries.
According to the Genoa Public Prosecutor’s Office, those being investigated are accused of belonging to Hamas or financing its activities, an organization classified as terrorist by the European Union. The investigations indicate that around 7 million euros (approximately R$45 million) raised for humanitarian purposes were diverted, in the last two years, to entities linked to the group. The police also reported the seizure of assets valued at more than 8 million euros.
Among those arrested is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Genoa-based Charitable Association in Solidarity with the Palestinian People. According to investigators, he maintained frequent contacts with representatives of similar organizations in countries such as the Netherlands, Austria, France and the United Kingdom, as well as relationships with high-ranking members of Hamas. Authorities claim that telephone interceptions indicate the existence of an international fundraising network that operated under the guise of charitable actions.
The investigation began after the identification of suspicious financial transactions and progressed with the cooperation of foreign authorities, under the coordination of the European judicial agency Eurojust. Italian authorities claim that the transfers took place through bank transfers and other mechanisms to associations abroad, some of them based in the Gaza Strip.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the action, calling it “particularly complex and important” for revealing Hamas’ financing through supposed charitable organizations. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said the operation exposed activities that he said hid support for terrorist organizations.
The case comes amid worsening tensions related to the war between Israel and Hamas. Since the group’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left around 1,200 people dead, Israel has been carrying out a military offensive in the Gaza Strip. According to the local Ministry of Health, more than 71,000 people have died in Palestinian territory since the start of the conflict.
