Italian cops just busted a major Hamas funding ring hiding behind charity work. Authorities arrested nine people, alleging they funneled over seven million euros to the militant group by posing as a humanitarian aid operation for Gaza, based in Genoa with links to Milan. The investigation, a joint effort by counter-terrorism and financial police, claims more than seventy percent of the donations collected through three pro-Palestinian associations were secretly diverted to Hamas, including its military wing and families of suicide bombers.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated the operation exposed activities that used humanitarian fronts to support terrorism, while also reminding the public of the suspects' right to a presumption of innocence. Beyond the arrests, police seized more than eight million euros in assets and issued international warrants for two more suspects believed to be abroad.
This case highlights ongoing European concerns about terrorism financing risks within charitable fundraising networks, especially since the latest Israel-Hamas war began. The legal process is still unfolding, with formal charges pending court adjudication.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated the operation exposed activities that used humanitarian fronts to support terrorism, while also reminding the public of the suspects' right to a presumption of innocence. Beyond the arrests, police seized more than eight million euros in assets and issued international warrants for two more suspects believed to be abroad.
This case highlights ongoing European concerns about terrorism financing risks within charitable fundraising networks, especially since the latest Israel-Hamas war began. The legal process is still unfolding, with formal charges pending court adjudication.
