Greece’s counterterrorism unit is intensifying an investigation into an alleged Hamas-linked operative arrested on Crete late last week, as new details emerged about his purported training, contacts and suspected role in a broader militant network.
Photographs broadcast by local media show the 37-year-old suspect, a Palestinian, at an airport about a year ago before traveling to Malaysia, where authorities believe he attended a training camp linked to Hamas. According to information cited in the reports, a second trip allegedly took place in August 2025, during which he is suspected of receiving instruction in the construction of explosive devices.
Authorities allege the suspect maintained contact with his “recruiter” and was awaiting instructions to carry out an attack. Greek police also believe a potential target was linked to Israeli interests, while evidence gathered so far suggests he may not have been acting alone.
The arrest comes amid heightened security concerns across Europe and follows recent warnings by Greek authorities about the risk of regional instability spilling over into European countries amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza and wider tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. Over the past week, reports have pointed to Athens’ growing cooperation with international intelligence and security agencies in monitoring potential extremist threats and protecting Israeli, Jewish and other potential targets.
According to findings by Greece’s National Intelligence Service (EYP) and the counterterrorism service, the suspect may have been part of a wider network allegedly planning attacks in several European countries. Investigators are examining communications, travel records and financial transactions to determine the scope of the operation and whether additional individuals were involved.
A former roommate was quoted as saying that the suspect kept a low profile while living in Athens. He said the man spent summers working in hotel kitchens on Crete and had previously lived in Germany, where an asylum application was reportedly rejected.
Security-camera footage aired by Mega TV showed the suspect being escorted by police officers shortly after his arrest on Crete during the early hours of Saturday. He was subsequently transferred to police headquarters in central Athens and appeared before a prosecutor.
Prosecutors have filed felony and misdemeanor charges, and the suspect has been referred to an investigating magistrate. He has requested additional time to prepare his defense and is expected to be summoned later this week for questioning by an investigating magistrate.
According to local media reports, the suspect allegedly told police he received 10,000 euros from Hamas for the planned operation and that his housing expenses in Athens were covered. He also allegedly claimed that when he attempted to distance himself from the terrorist group, members threatened to harm relatives remaining in Gaza.
The investigation remains ongoing as Greek authorities work with allies to determine whether the case is connected to wider militant activities across Europe.
