UPDATE: Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals accused of raising more than $8.2 million to fund Hamas. This urgent operation was executed this morning, December 27, 2023, by the State Police and the Guardia di Finanza (Financial Police), following a thorough investigation that began after Hamas’s attack on Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi announced the arrests via a post on X, emphasizing the seriousness of the operation. “Despite the necessary presumption of innocence that must always be recognized at this stage, the veil has been torn away on behaviors and activities that, behind the facade of initiatives to benefit the Palestinian population, concealed support for and participation in organizations with actual terrorist aims of an Islamist nature,” Piantedosi stated.
The investigation revealed a sophisticated fundraising network based in Genoa, with associates in Milan. Authorities confirmed that the suspects raised donations under the guise of supporting Gaza’s civilian population. However, it was found that a staggering 71% of these funds were redirected to Hamas’s military wing and used to support the families of suicide bombers or those detained for terrorism.
Central to this investigation is Mohammad Hannoun, the president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, who has denied any involvement in financing Hamas. The suspects allegedly utilized three charities to collect and launder the funds, obscuring their true intent.
This operation marks a significant step in Italy’s fight against terrorism financing, highlighting the government’s commitment to tackling threats that endanger public safety. “This is a danger to which our government is paying the utmost attention,” Piantedosi added.
As developments unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the implications of this case. The arrests underscore the ongoing challenges posed by organizations like Hamas, which is designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States and many other countries.
The urgency of this situation resonates deeply, as it not only addresses financial crimes but also the broader implications for security and counter-terrorism efforts. Further investigations are expected, and authorities are poised to take additional measures as they continue to dismantle funding networks supporting terrorist activities.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
