Hamas and Middle East Conflict

Italian anti-terrorism prosecutors have arrested nine people linked to three charities on suspicion of using ostensibly humanitarian fundraising to funnel about €7 million (roughly $8.2 million) to Hamas-linked associations in Gaza, the Palestinian territories and Israel. Authorities say more than 70% of the donations collected for 'humanitarian purposes' were directed to Hamas or affiliated entities, some allegedly reaching families implicated in terrorist attacks, and identified Palestinian Association in Italy president Mohammad Hannoun as head of what they called the 'Italian cell' of the organization.