Italian authorities have apprehended nine individuals allegedly involved in a sophisticated financial network that diverted approximately $8 million in humanitarian donations to Hamas’s military operations. The investigation, spanning multiple Italian regions, reveals a coordinated effort to mask military funding as civilian aid for Gaza.
The arrests occur against the backdrop of sustained Israel-Hamas hostilities following the October 2023 attacks. While Gaza’s civilian population experiences critical shortages of essential supplies, this operation highlights how humanitarian crises can be exploited for militant financing.
According to judicial documents, the scheme operated through a complex fundraising mechanism where donors were led to believe their contributions would support Palestinian civilians. Forensic financial analysis indicates over 70% of collected funds were systematically redirected to Hamas’s military wing and to families of suicide bombers and detainees.
Among those detained is Mohammad Hannoun, president of Italy’s Palestinian Association, who publicly denies any affiliation with Hamas. In his defense, Hannoun stated his support extends only to what he characterizes as the ‘legitimate resistance’ of Palestinians, distancing himself from the terrorist organization’s military activities.
The Italian police operation demonstrates enhanced international cooperation in combating terrorist financing networks, particularly those exploiting humanitarian channels during active conflicts. This case establishes significant precedent for European nations monitoring organizations that potentially cross from humanitarian work into militant support.