Hamas Built European Attack Network for Second October 7

Investigations by European intelligence and media, including Neue Zürcher Zeitung, revealed that Hamas spent years building an operational network across Europe. This infrastructure, which included sleeper cells and smuggling routes, was designed to carry out coordinated strikes against Jewish, Israeli, and Western targets. The network specifically planned a second October 7 attack to mark the anniversary of the 2023 massacre.

Intelligence operations led to arrests and weapon seizures in Germany, Greece, Cyprus, Denmark, Britain, and Austria. In Germany, prosecutors identified the country as a logistical hub, while Greek authorities foiled a plot targeting an Israeli cruise ship. In Austria, intelligence uncovered a cache of pistols and explosives. Investigators believe senior commander Khalil al-Kharraz directed these operations from Lebanon.

These revelations follow the initial October 7, 2023, attack, where Hamas launched 4,000 rockets and incursions that killed over 1,100 people. Israel responded with a sustained offensive in the Gaza Strip and Southern Lebanon that Hamas estimates caused over 50,000 deaths by March 2025. While countries like Norway and Brazil view the group as a resistance movement, the United Kingdom, United States, and European Union designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. Hamas has denied the European network allegations, stating its struggle is limited to Palestinian territory.