Germany indicts 7 Hamas suspects over plot to attack Jewish targets

Key Points:

• German federal prosecutors have indicted seven individuals accused of securing weapons for Hamas to carry out terrorist attacks in Germany and Austria around the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel, highlighting the threat of Hamas networks in Europe.
• The suspects, from Germany, Denmark, Lebanon, and Bulgaria, allegedly obtained automatic rifles, pistols, and ammunition, with some weapons stored in Vienna; one accused was reportedly a confidential informant for German intelligence while involved in arms procurement.
• German intelligence estimates Hamas had up to 650 operatives in Germany in 2025, with activities previously tolerated under a policy that allowed Hamas to operate as long as it refrained from violence, a stance now criticized as outdated.
• German authorities maintain they have banned Hamas and Hezbollah activities and continue investigations against extremist activities, though protests and social media agitation linked to the Israel-Gaza conflict have increased antisemitic incidents.
• Experts and Israeli officials warn that Hamas and Hezbollah maintain coordinated terror networks across Europe, with plots targeting Israeli and American sites in Germany; Israel’s ambassador to Germany calls for a unified response to the growing threat.