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Italian Imam Released Amid Controversy Over Hamas Defense

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

An Italian court ordered release of Mohamed Shahin, a Turin imam, after his arrest for defending Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack in Israel.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the ruling, saying Shahin justified terrorism.
Shahin's lawyers argued deportation to Egypt would put him at risk, with the government expected to appeal.

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Story summary

An Italian court ordered release of Mohamed Shahin, a Turin imam, after his arrest for defending Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack in Israel.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the ruling, saying Shahin justified terrorism.
Shahin's lawyers argued deportation to Egypt would put him at risk, with the government expected to appeal.