Italian Investigation Uncovers Hamas Financing Network

An investigation led by the Italian National Anti-Mafia and Counter-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office in Genoa has revealed an intricate system of illicit financing benefiting Hamas, the terrorist organization responsible for the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel. The operation resulted in nine arrest warrants, the seizure of assets and financial resources worth between 7 and 8 million euros, and exposed a network funnelling funds under the guise of humanitarian aid.

Humanitarian Facade Masking Terrorist Funding

The collected funds in Italy originated from three associations officially dedicated to humanitarian causes: the Charity Association of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (A.B.S.P.P.) in Genoa, established in 1994, the Volunteer Organization of 2003, and La Cupola d'Oro in Milan, also founded in 2003. Behind the facade of initiatives supporting the Palestinian population, the funds were diverted to Hamas through international banking triangulations, foreign transfers, and accounts linked to organizations and leaders within the movement. A small portion of the funds were used for humanitarian purposes, while the rest was allocated to support the operational activities of the terrorist organization, including aiding the families of attackers or detainees, thus strengthening the network's support base.

Associations Involved

These associations, while appearing to engage in legitimate charitable work, were allegedly central to funneling money to Hamas through various financial channels.

Mohammad Hannoun: Key Figure in the Scheme

At the center of the system was Mohammad Hannoun, president of A.B.S.P.P. and considered the head of Hamas's foreign operations in Italy. Hannoun, known for his direct contacts with Italian politicians and having been invited to the Parliament, allegedly directed over 70% of the collected funds to Hamas and affiliated organizations over two decades. Investigators estimate that Hannoun transferred at least 7.3 million euros after October 7, 2023. The prosecution claims that Hannoun created an operational cell in Italy to support the international strategy of the terrorist organization.

Hannoun's Alleged Activities

• Directed over 70% of collected funds to Hamas
• Transferred at least 7.3 million euros after October 7, 2023
• Established an operational cell in Italy

Hannoun's alleged activities paint a picture of a man deeply embedded in a network designed to provide financial support to Hamas.

Arrests and Individuals Involved

Other individuals arrested include Dawoud Ra’Ed Hussny Mousa, Elasaly Yaser, Al Salahat Raed, Albustanji Riyad AbdelrahimJaber, and Osama Alisawi, former Hamas minister and co-founder of A.B.S.P.P. They were allegedly involved in managing funds, propaganda, and operational activities of the Italian cell. Others, including Abu Rawwa Adel Ibrahim Salameh, Abu Deiah Khalil, and Abdu Saleh Mohammed Ismail, are accused of external complicity and transferring money abroad. Two suspects remain at large, residing in the Gaza Strip and Turkey, respectively.

List of Arrested Individuals

These individuals played various roles within the alleged Hamas support network in Italy.

Investigation and International Cooperation

The investigation involved wiretaps, monitoring financial flows, and acquiring documents, with extensive international cooperation, particularly with the Netherlands, Eurojust, and Israeli authorities. The Digos of Genoa, along with the Guardia di Finanza, conducted searches and seizures of documents, computers, and cash, also blocking bank accounts and real estate attributable to the suspects. Mohammad Hannoun is currently in the Marassi prison, awaiting validation interrogations.

Key Aspects of the Investigation

• Wiretaps and financial monitoring
• International cooperation with the Netherlands, Eurojust, and Israeli authorities
• Seizure of documents, computers, and cash

The investigation highlights the complex and coordinated effort to uncover and dismantle the Hamas financing network.

A.B.S.P.P.'s Response

Despite the asset freezes and Hannoun's arrest, the Charity Association of Solidarity with the Palestinian People has stated its intention to continue its solidarity activities towards the Palestinian population, affirming the distinction between humanitarian purposes and the terrorist goals pursued by some members of the network.

Political Reactions

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her "satisfaction for the operation," calling it highly complex and important. She thanked the Genoa Prosecutor's Office, the National Anti-Mafia and Counter-Terrorism Directorate, the State Police, and the Guardia di Finanza, as well as the Aise for their informational support. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi emphasized that the operation has deprived terrorism of resources and operational capabilities, stating that "our police forces, among the best in the world," have identified suspicious financial flows and blocked sums intended for Hamas. The initiative has sparked a political debate, with the majority reaffirming the need to combat terrorism, while the opposition highlighted the need to "distinguish between legitimate solidarity with the Palestinian population and criminal activities." Israel has called the operation an important step in the fight against Hamas.

Statements from Key Figures

These political reactions underscore the significance of the operation and the ongoing debate surrounding the issue.

Accused Individuals and Their Alleged Roles

Geographic Distribution of Suspects