Ex-Hamas Leader's Bodyguard Convicted in UK, Faces Extradition to Germany for Terror Plot

Mohammed Al-Fateh, who previously served as the close bodyguard for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, has been convicted in the UK of violent offenses and is expected to be extradited to Germany. German authorities suspect Al-Fateh, also known as Mohammed Naim, of involvement in transferring weapons to Vienna and planning attacks against Jewish and Israeli targets in Europe, potentially around the second anniversary of the October 7th massacre. German authorities have requested his extradition, alleging his participation in preparations for attacks planned in Germany or Austria. He is believed to have played a key role in transporting and storing weapons intended for a terror cell. German investigations are examining the involvement of seven Hamas suspects in the alleged plot. According to the extradition request, an individual identified as "Mohammed A," believed to be Al-Fateh, was involved in moving weapons to Vienna, where they were hidden for potential use in an attack. He is also alleged to have pre-recorded a video claiming responsibility for the planned attack on behalf of Hamas, vowing "revenge for the genocide in Gaza." Al-Fateh was arrested in the UK following a violent incident where he attacked a bailiff with a knife. He was convicted of unlawful wounding, possession of two knives, and criminal damage, but acquitted of attempted grievous bodily harm. While facing legal proceedings in the UK, German authorities pursued his extradition for suspected terror activities. Al-Fateh moved to the UK in 2015 and obtained British citizenship in 2020. The German investigation focuses on the alleged preparations by Hamas operatives for attacks on Jewish and Israeli targets in Europe and Al-Fateh's purported role in the transfer of weapons and attack preparations.