BREAKING: Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals connected to three charitable organizations, accused of raising approximately €7 million (around $7.4 million) for the militant group Hamas. This urgent development comes following a statement from anti-terrorism prosecutors, revealing a complex scheme involving bank transfers and international organizations.
The arrests, which include Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, were made as part of a coordinated operation with multiple EU nations. Prosecutors labeled Hannoun as the “head of the Italian cell of Hamas.” This operation highlights the ongoing concerns regarding illicit funding for groups listed as terrorist organizations by the European Union.
According to authorities, the funds were allegedly funneled to various associations in Gaza and the Palestinian territories, which have been classified as illegal by Israel due to their affiliations with Hamas. The illegal transactions were reportedly carried out through “triangulation operations,” complicating the financial trails and obscuring the real beneficiaries.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi took to social media platform X, stating, “This operation lifted the veil on behavior that pretended to be initiatives for the Palestinian population while concealing support for terrorist organizations.” This remark underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s commitment to tackling such activities.
As part of the investigation, Italian prosecutors collaborated with other EU nations to trace the funds, emphasizing the interconnectedness of financial networks supporting terrorism. The European Council has actively extended restrictive measures against individuals and entities aiding Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, reinforcing the international community’s stance against terrorism financing.
No immediate comments have been made by the arrested individuals or their associated organizations, leaving many questions unanswered about the operational details and implications of these arrests. As the situation develops, the focus remains on how these arrests could impact ongoing international efforts to combat terrorism financing.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding charity and humanitarian aid in conflict zones, raising critical questions about transparency and accountability. As authorities continue their investigations, more updates are expected in the coming days, making this a situation to watch closely.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
