The German federal prosecutor’s office has charged seven individuals with allegedly obtaining weapons for Hamas, targeting attacks on the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel. This indictment emphasizes the threat posed by Hamas networks in Europe to Israeli, American, and European facilities and citizens.
The prosecutor’s office stated: “All of the accused are associated with the Hamas foreign terrorist organization. The military wing, Qassam Brigades, started establishing arms depots in Europe. By July 2025, Hamas plotted an attack in Germany or Austria against Israel, Jewish individuals, or pro-Israel supporters.” These suspects were detained between October 2025 and May 2026.
“The attack was intended to coincide with the second commemoration of Hamas’s assault on Israel on October 7, 2023.”
The suspects include Abed Al G., Yousif C., Borhan El-K., Wael F.M., Ahmad I., Kamel M., and Mohammad S. Their full names remain protected under German privacy laws.
The German prosecutors revealed that the accused had possession of a fully automatic rifle, thirteen pistols, and over 700 rounds of ammunition. Mohammed A., charged separately, reportedly transported some weapons to Vienna for storage.
One suspect worked as an informant for Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, yet allegedly withheld complete details about his participation in acquiring ammunition for Hamas.
According to German journalist Sascha Adamek, Germany’s past policies inadvertently allowed Hamas to establish a foothold for recruitment and radicalization. A recent intelligence report indicated that in 2025, Germany housed up to 650 Hamas operatives, compared to 450 in 2023.
Germany’s Ministry of the Interior clarified that Hamas and Hezbollah activities are banned, although supporters often act subtly. Hezbollah activities in Germany are dispersed across religious and cultural associations.
The ministry further explained that security agencies consistently probe potential extremist activities, maintaining vigilance following the October 7 assault on Israel, which exacerbated threats in Germany and Europe.
The alliance between Hamas and Hezbollah is evident, with Hezbollah joining forces with Hamas after the 2023 attack on Israel. German prosecutors pointed to Lebanon-based coordination in the weapons operation.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the ambition of Hamas to spread attacks in Europe, alleging Turkey’s role as a base for these operations. Scholar Matthew Levitt noted Hamas’s sustained plotting in Europe, involving high-ranking members in Lebanon.
Israel’s Ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, emphasized the need for a collective response to combat Hamas’s pervasive threat that affects global security.