Charity or Conflict? Italy Busts €7M Hamas Funding Network Disguised as Humanitarian Aid
Italian police arrested 9 suspects for allegedly funneling €7M in charity funds to Hamas. Learn about the complex fundraising system busted in Genoa and Milan.
A €7 million charity drive wasn't what it seemed. Italian police have dismantled a sophisticated network allegedly funneling millions to Hamas under the guise of humanitarian aid for Gaza. Authorities arrested nine people and seized over €8 million in assets after a major counter-terror investigation.
The 'Complex' Diversion of Funds
The investigation, which gained momentum after the October 7, 2023 attack, revealed a systematic hijacking of donations. Headquartered in Genoa with branches in Milan, the group allegedly diverted more than 71% of collected funds to Hamas's military wing and the families of suicide bombers, rather than providing relief to Palestinian civilians.
High-Profile Arrests and Denials
Among those detained is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy. While Hannoun has previously dismissed such accusations as a "lie," Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi praised the financial police for their work. He noted, however, that the "presumption of innocence" remains a key factor at this stage of the legal process.
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