Greece Probes Suspected Hamas Cell After Crete Arrest, Cyprus Links Emerge

Greek authorities are expanding a counterterrorism investigation after the arrest of a 37-year-old Palestinian man in Crete, amid evidence of bomb-making activity and suspected links to a Hamas network operating across Greece and Cyprus.

The suspect, detained Saturday in a joint operation by the National

Officials said he will be transferred to Athens as investigators examine ties to two Palestinians arrested in Cyprus in a parallel probe.

Authorities believe the three men were part of a coordinated cell, with the Cyprus-based suspects holding senior roles. Intelligence indicates the man arrested in Crete had also been in contact with individuals investigated in other European terrorism cases.

Police said the suspect, believed to be from Gaza, may have received explosives training abroad, including instruction in improvised devices using commercially available materials.

The Palestinian suspect was under surveillance for about two weeks before his arrest.

Searches in Crete and Athens uncovered mobile phones, data devices and laboratory equipment, including a precision scale and heated magnetic stirrer.

Investigators said he had ordered additional materials suspected for use in explosives, though the shipment had not arrived.

Authorities are examining whether Israeli-linked interests in Europe may have been potential targets, but have not identified a specific site or imminent threat.

Greek officials have downplayed speculation about a possible link to an Israeli-owned cruise ship expected in Crete.

The case follows recent arrests in Cyprus and comes as European security services remain on alert over threats linked to the Gaza conflict.

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Greek authorities are expanding a counterterrorism investigation after the arrest of a 37-year-old Palestinian man in Crete, amid evidence of bomb-making activity and suspected links to a Hamas network operating across Greece and Cyprus.

The suspect, detained Saturday in a joint operation by the National Intelligence Service (EYP) and police, faces charges including membership in Hamas, receiving terrorist training and travel for terrorist purposes.

Officials said he will be transferred to Athens as investigators examine ties to two Palestinians arrested in Cyprus in a parallel probe.

Authorities believe the three men were part of a coordinated cell, with the Cyprus-based suspects holding senior roles. Intelligence indicates the man arrested in Crete had also been in contact with individuals investigated in other European terrorism cases.

Police said the suspect, believed to be from Gaza, may have received explosives training abroad, including instruction in improvised devices using commercially available materials.

The Palestinian suspect was under surveillance for about two weeks before his arrest.

Searches in Crete and Athens uncovered mobile phones, data devices and laboratory equipment, including a precision scale and heated magnetic stirrer.

Investigators said he had ordered additional materials suspected for use in explosives, though the shipment had not arrived.

Authorities are examining whether Israeli-linked interests in Europe may have been potential targets, but have not identified a specific site or imminent threat.

Greek officials have downplayed speculation about a possible link to an Israeli-owned cruise ship expected in Crete.

The case follows recent arrests in Cyprus and comes as European security services remain on alert over threats linked to the Gaza conflict.

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