UPDATE: Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals accused of raising over $8.2 million to fund Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. The arrests, which took place this morning, are part of a broader crackdown following the October 7, 2023Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi as “very important and significant,” highlights a complex fundraising network allegedly operating under the guise of supporting the Palestinian population. “Behind the facade of initiatives to benefit the Palestinian population, there was support for organizations with actual terrorist aims,” Piantedosi stated in a post on X.
Authorities report that the investigation, conducted by Italy’s counter-terrorism and financial police, began in response to the Hamas attack. The suspects, including the notable figure Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, were reportedly based in Genoa with associates in Milan.
According to police, approximately 71% of the funds raised were funneled directly to Hamas to support its military operations and the families of individuals involved in terrorism. “The suspects collected donations intended for the civilian population of Gaza,” a police statement emphasized, revealing the deceptive practices used to mask the true destination of the funds.
Hannoun has denied the allegations, claiming that he is not a financier for Hamas. However, authorities assert that the accused operated three charities to launder donations, effectively redirecting resources to the militant group’s coffers.
This urgent update underscores the Italian government’s heightened vigilance against terrorism financing, particularly as tensions escalate in the region. The implications of these arrests reverberate beyond Italy, as they spotlight the global challenge of combating financial support for terrorist activities.
As the investigation continues, observers will be watching closely for further developments in this case and its impact on international efforts to address terrorism financing.
