Italian authorities just crushed a multimillion-dollar Hamas funding racket hiding behind fake charities, exposing how terrorist networks exploit Western goodwill to fuel violence against allies like Israel.
Story Snapshot
- Nine suspects arrested in Italy for belonging to and financing Hamas through Italy-based charities and companies.
- Authorities seized over €8 million in assets after uncovering €7 million diverted to Hamas-linked groups in two years.
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed the operation, slamming “so-called charity organizations” for bankrolling terror.
- Joint effort with EU partners via Eurojust highlights cross-border threat of terror financing in Europe.
Arrests Target Hamas Funding Network
Genoa prosecutors ordered arrests of nine individuals accused of managing charities and companies that funneled €7 million to Hamas over two years. Anti-mafia and anti-terrorism units executed the operation late December 2025, seizing assets exceeding €8 million. Suspicious financial transactions triggered the probe, revealing diversified fronts for terror support. This strike disrupts a key revenue stream for Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the EU.
EU Cooperation Exposes Cross-Border Scheme
Italian investigators coordinated with Dutch authorities and other EU partners through Eurojust to trace funds and links abroad. The network allegedly diverted donations collected under humanitarian pretenses to Hamas entities. Italy’s anti-mafia expertise proved vital in dismantling these structures, mirroring tools used against organized crime. Such operations affirm Europe’s commitment to blocking terror financing within its borders.
Meloni Praises Decisive Counterterrorism Win
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commended the “particularly complex and important operation,” condemning abuse of charity organizations to fund Hamas. Her pro-Israel stance, amid domestic protests over the Gaza conflict, gains reinforcement from this success. The arrests follow heightened EU scrutiny of Hamas networks since the October 7, 2023 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis. Meloni’s government signals zero tolerance for terror support on Italian soil.
The case fits a pattern of Islamist groups using nonprofits for dual purposes, prompting stricter oversight. Legitimate Palestinian aid groups now face intensified financial checks, balancing security with humanitarian needs. Italy’s robust laws enable swift asset seizures, setting a precedent against terror financing.
Broader Implications for Security and Aid
Short-term, the bust interrupts Hamas funding, bolstering allies like Israel and the U.S. under President Trump, who prioritizes dismantling terror networks. Long-term, expect tighter regulations on charities channeling funds to high-risk areas like Gaza. Diaspora communities may encounter banking hurdles, while Hamas adapts to opaque methods like hawala. This victory underscores vigilance against threats eroding Western security and values.
Investigators continue probing potential additional suspects, with preliminary hearings ahead for those in custody. The operation highlights how financial intelligence thwarts clandestine support for violence, protecting global stability.
Sources:
Italy arrests nine over alleged Hamas funding through charities
Italian authorities arrest 9 alleged Hamas fundraisers
