Italian authorities uncover financing scheme of Hamas through charitable organisations
Italian law enforcement agencies have revealed a financing network for Hamas conducted through three charitable non-profit organisations operating in Italy under the guise of aiding Palestinians, reports Corriere Della Sera. The investigation found that over seven million euros were channelled to support Hamas, including its military wing.
The case involves three registered NGOs in Italy: the Charity Association of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, founded in Genoa in 1994; a volunteers’ organisation of the same name established in 2003; and the Golden Dome Foundation, launched in Milan in 2003. According to authorities, more than 70% of the funds collected by these entities were directed to support Hamas. All three NGOS were managed by Mohammad Hannoun, identified by investigators as the head of the Italian Hamas cell. The investigation concerns seven individuals, including Hannoun.
The police and counterterrorism department’s coordinated operations under the national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office are ongoing and may result in further arrests and disclosures in the case against the terrorist organisation.
