Italian Police Arrest Nine in Hamas Financing Probe, Seize €8 Million
Operation targets funding network for Palestinian militant group
ROME — Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals accused of financing Hamas through charitable organizations, seizing more than €8 million in assets. Investigators said the funds, totaling at least €7.3 million, were used to support Hamas operations and assist families of militants involved in suicide attacks or imprisoned for terrorism-related offenses.
The arrests and asset seizures were carried out by Italian police and the Guardia di Finanza in a coordinated operation led by Genoa’s District Anti-Mafia and Anti-Terrorism Directorate.
Investigation Details
The probe, which began prior to the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, uncovered a sophisticated network of international financial transfers. Prosecutors said the funds were routed through three Italian associations based in Genoa and Milan.
Authorities allege that seven of the arrested individuals were directly linked to Hamas’ foreign operations wing, while the remaining two provided external support to the group. Prosecutors argued that these financial activities strengthened Hamas’ operational capacity.
Italian officials emphasized that the operation demonstrates their ongoing commitment to disrupting terrorist financing and safeguarding national and international security.
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