Italian authorities have detained nine individuals as part of a sweeping investigation into a network accused of diverting humanitarian aid intended for Gaza and funneling it to entities linked to Hamas, according to prosecutors in Genoa. The operation, coordinated by Italy’s anti‑mafia and anti‑terrorism units, marks one of the country’s most significant counter‑terror financing actions in recent years.
Investigators allege that more than €7 million raised through Italy‑based charities—publicly promoted as humanitarian support for Gaza’s civilian population—was instead routed to Hamas‑affiliated organisations over the past two years. Authorities also seized assets valued at over €8 million during coordinated raids across Genoa, Milan, and other regions.
Among those detained is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, who prosecutors say played a central role in the fundraising network. Two additional suspects remain at large, with international arrest warrants issued—one believed to be in Turkey and another in GazaANSA.
Italian officials said the funds were allegedly channelled through front organisations masquerading as charitable groups, with some money reportedly used to support families of Hamas members involved in attacks or imprisoned on terrorism‑related charges.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the arrests as a “complex and important operation,” underscoring Italy’s heightened scrutiny of financial flows tied to Middle Eastern conflicts.
The investigation remains ongoing, with 25 individuals under formal scrutiny as prosecutors continue to map the full extent of the alleged financing network.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and EU President Ursula von der Leyen Picture by Christophe Licoppe / European Union
