Berlin — German security officials have confirmed the arrest of three men suspected of ties to the Palestinian militant group Hamas and of plotting violence against Jewish and Israeli institutions on German soil. Authorities describe the arrests as a significant counterterrorism success amid escalating threats across Europe.
Arrest Operation and Charges
In a coordinated counterterrorism move led by Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office, the three individuals were detained in Berlin. Prosecutors say they face charges including:
- Membership in a foreign terrorist organization (Hamas)
- Preparing a serious act of anti-state violence
The suspects have been identified only as Abed Al G., Wael F. M., and Ahmad I., in accordance with German privacy law. Two are German citizens, while one is Lebanese-born.
Alleged Procurement Scheme
Investigators allege that the men acted as “foreign operatives” on behalf of Hamas, tasked with sourcing weaponry for future attacks. Prosecutors claim the suspects had been working on acquiring firearms and ammunition since at least summer 2025. During the arrests, authorities recovered an arsenal including an AK-47 assault rifle, several handguns, and a large cache of ammunition. These seizures lend weight to allegations of a serious, imminent threat.
Security Context and Rising Tensions
These arrests come amid heightened alert across Europe, as many countries have reported increased antisemitic incidents linked to the Israel–Gaza conflict. In Germany, authorities have frequently warned of threats to Jewish communities and institutions.
This case follows another high-profile trial in Berlin involving four alleged Hamas operatives accused of plotting attacks in Europe.
Hamas Denial and Next Steps
Hamas issued a statement rejecting all links to the three detainees, calling the allegations “baseless” and suggesting they are intended to undermine German public support for the Palestinian cause. The group reiterated its longstanding claim that its armed operations are restricted to Israel and Palestinian territories.
The suspects are slated to appear before the Federal Court of Justice, where a judge will decide whether they should remain in pretrial detention. The investigation is ongoing as German authorities work to uncover any wider networks operating within the country.
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