Five Palestinians Go On Trial In Cyprus As Alleged Hamas Terror Cell

Jerusalem, 6 August, 2026 (TPS-IL) -- Five Palestinian men accused of belonging to a Hamas terrorist network and preparing attacks against Israeli targets in Cyprus were referred on Thursday for trial before the Larnaca Criminal Court.

The defendants, aged 32, 33, 38, 41 and 54, are due to appear on Oct. 14 following a hearing held under heavy security.
They face 15 charges, including terrorism, conspiracy to murder, participation in a criminal organization, possession of explosive precursors, money laundering and supporting a terrorist organization.

According to the prosecution case, the five allegedly conspired during 2026 to support Hamas and attack Israeli interests in Cyprus as part of a broader network recruiting Palestinians for attacks in Europe.

Members of the network were allegedly trained in Malaysia.

The 41-year-old, who had lived in Indonesia and Malaysia, is accused of directing the Cyprus network and issuing instructions to its members. He was detained in July after being deported to Cyprus.

Prosecutors describe the 33-year-old as the network’s key operative on the island. He was linked to three properties in the Larnaca and Limassol districts where authorities allegedly found large quantities of dangerous chemicals and equipment for manufacturing explosives. He also allegedly photographed potential locations and received a monthly salary.

The 38-year-old, a physics teacher, is accused of entering Cyprus through the Turkish-occupied north to manufacture explosives. He denies involvement and says he came to seek asylum.

The 54-year-old Cypriot citizen is accused of receiving packages containing dangerous substances. He denies the allegations. His release on €1 million bail was overturned on appeal.

The 32-year-old allegedly arranged the 33-year-old’s travel.

Investigators believe the suspected cell had been tasked by Hamas with attacking Israeli citizens and Israeli-linked sites in Cyprus.

Members allegedly surveyed and photographed potential targets while acquiring chemicals and equipment that could be used to manufacture explosives.

Authorities believe the plot formed part of a wider Hamas operation targeting Israeli interests across Europe.