Italian authorities have arrested Mohammad Hannoun, a prominent Palestinian community leader in Genoa, along with eight others accused of funneling millions of euros to Hamas through fake charities. The operation, carried out in late December 2025, marks a major crackdown on alleged terror financing networks in Europe, with officials seizing around eight million euros in assets.
Operation Details and Arrests
Police in Genoa executed arrests on December 27, 2025, targeting a group suspected of raising funds under the guise of humanitarian aid. Prosecutors claim the suspects diverted money to support Hamas activities, including aid to families of militants.
Investigators focused on three charities that appeared to help Palestinian civilians but allegedly sent over 70 percent of donations to Hamas linked groups. The probe, led by the Genoa District Anti Mafia Directorate, involved wiretaps and financial tracking over two years.
Authorities issued nine arrest warrants, with seven carried out in Italy. Two suspects remain at large, believed to be in Turkey and Gaza. The operation also led to searches in multiple cities, uncovering documents and bank records.
Who is Mohammad Hannoun
Mohammad Hannoun, 64, has lived in Genoa since 1983 and serves as president of the Palestinian Association in Italy. He has long been active in community work, organizing events and aid drives for Palestinians.
Born in Gaza, Hannoun moved to Italy for studies and built a life there. He has faced scrutiny before, with police reports dating back to 1991 linking him to early Hamas contacts.
Despite past investigations in 2006 and 2010 that ended without charges, this time authorities label him the head of an Italian Hamas cell. Hannoun denies the accusations, calling them politically motivated.
His arrest has drawn attention due to his public profile, including meetings with figures like climate activist Greta Thunberg. Supporters view him as a humanitarian, while critics see hidden agendas.
Allegations of Terror Financing
Prosecutors allege the group collected about seven million euros from donors across Europe, promising aid for Gaza but channeling funds to Hamas operations. This includes support for families of suicide attackers and imprisoned militants.
Investigators point to bank transfers and communications showing direct ties to Hamas foreign wings. They claim the charities served as fronts, boosting Hamas capacity without overt violence.
Key evidence includes:
- Financial records showing large transfers to Gaza based entities blacklisted by Israel.
- Witness statements from former associates.
- Digital traces of coordination with overseas contacts.
The case ties into broader European efforts to curb terror funding after the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel. Italy’s actions align with similar probes in Germany and France.
Timeline of Investigations
Hannoun’s history with Italian authorities spans decades, showing evolving scrutiny.
| Year | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | First police report on Hannoun’s Hamas contacts | Monitoring begins, no charges |
| 2006 | Genoa court investigation into donations | Case dismissed by judge |
| 2010 | Second probe by prosecutors | Dropped due to lack of evidence |
| 2023 | New investigation starts post October 7 attacks | Leads to current arrests |
| 2025 | Operation Domino executed | Nine arrests, assets seized |
This timeline highlights how perceptions shifted, with earlier cases seeing donations as solidarity, not terror support.
International Reactions and Context
The arrests have sparked debate, with some critics arguing Israeli influence has shaped Italian justice. They point to blacklists of Gaza NGOs after 2023, which now label long standing groups as terrorist.
Supporters of the operation, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, praise it as vital for security. Meloni announced the arrests, emphasizing Italy’s stance against terror funding.
On social media, opinions divide. Posts praise the crackdown, while others defend Hannoun as a victim of bias. This reflects global tensions over the Israel Palestine conflict.
Similar cases emerged in 2025, like a Belgian network dismantled for similar reasons. Experts say such operations aim to disrupt financing amid ongoing Gaza strife.
Broader Implications for Europe
Europe faces growing challenges in balancing humanitarian aid with security. The case raises questions about vetting charities in conflict zones.
Analysts predict more arrests as countries share intelligence. For Italy, this strengthens its role in EU anti terror efforts, potentially influencing policies on migration and aid.
The probe also highlights risks for diaspora communities, where cultural support can blur into alleged extremism. Legal experts watch for appeals, which could test evidence strength.
