Coordinated counterterrorism operations across Europe have revealed a significant Hamas network that Israeli authorities allege was preparing attacks against Israeli and Jewish civilians. The operation involved Mossad alongside various European intelligence and law enforcement organizations working together across multiple nations.
This dismantled network is part of Hamas’s wider initiative to establish terrorist infrastructure throughout Europe, according to a release from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office via Mossad. Israeli officials have dubbed this network the “Hamas octopus,” highlighting its operational units, weapon stockpiles, and logistical routes designed for executing attacks “on orders.”
An Israeli intelligence official informed Fox News Digital that “active cells are spread across Europe, already targeting objectives.” As these operations proceed, he stressed that both the public and law enforcement agencies must enhance their vigilance.
Investigators have made notable discoveries, including a weapon cache in Vienna last September. Austrian authorities discovered this cache filled with pistols and explosives, linking it to Hamas operative Muhammad Naim, whose father, Bassem Naim, is a prominent figure within the Hamas Politburo in Gaza and has connections to Hamas leader Khalil al-Haya.
As the investigation unfolds, Israeli sources have indicated ties between the activities in Vienna and actions taking place outside Europe. For instance, Israel reported a meeting between Muhammad Naim and his father in Qatar in September, suggesting that Hamas’s leadership abroad may be orchestrating the network’s activities—despite the group’s public denials. Some Israeli officials speculate that these denials hint at a loss of control over some “rogue agents.”
Moreover, the investigation extends into Turkey, identified by Israeli officials as a “favorable operating area” for Hamas operatives over the years. European intelligence agencies are probing a potential conspiracy possibly involving Hamas operatives moving within Turkish borders. For example, German authorities apprehended Burhan al-Khatib, an influential network member, in November after tracking his movements back to Turkey.
An Israeli intelligence source noted that, despite Turkey’s diplomatic ties with the U.S. and President Erdoğan’s close relationship with Washington, there are clear indicators of Turkey’s involvement. This includes the arrest in Germany of Hamas operatives arriving directly from Turkish territory, implying that some command and operational direction originates from within Turkey itself. The acceptance of Hamas by Turkish authorities is seen as a factor that fuels terrorist activities in Europe.
Israeli officials believe this collaboration across various countries reflects an increasing recognition in Europe of the threats posed by Hamas operations extending beyond the Middle East. They note recent actions by European entities against Hamas’s incitement and recruitment networks, which involve various charities and religious organizations, particularly pointing to Germany’s measures as a recent example.
Mossad has asserted its commitment to collaborating with international partners to prevent attacks targeting Israeli, Jewish, and civilian entities. Following the events of October 7, Israel has indicated that Hamas has intensified its efforts to establish infrastructure outside its borders, with Mossad actively working to thwart “dozens of planned attacks globally.”
