News|HamasGermany arrests three men suspected of targeting Jewish institutionsThe men are suspected of of being ‘foreign operatives’ for Hamas and will appear in court Thursday, prosecutors say.

German authorities have apprehended three individuals suspected of planning acts of violence against Jewish targets in Germany, reportedly on behalf of the Palestinian group Hamas. The suspects are believed to have been involved in acquiring firearms and ammunition for attacks targeting Israeli or Jewish institutions in the country.

During the arrests, authorities discovered various weapons, including an AK-47 assault rifle and several pistols, along with a substantial quantity of ammunition. The individuals, identified as German citizen Abed Al G, Wael FM of Lebanese origin, and German citizen Ahmad I, were detained in Berlin. They are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday to determine custody status before trial.

Hamas is recognized as a terrorist organization by both Germany and the European Union. Earlier this year, four Hamas members suspected of plotting attacks on Jewish institutions in Europe stood trial in Berlin, marking the first case against the group in Germany.

Anti-terrorism investigators previously observed the suspects meeting in Berlin for a weapon exchange. Following the arrests, forensic technicians are analyzing the seized arsenal. Additional searches occurred in Leipzig and Oberhausen, areas linked to the suspects. Germany maintains stringent security at synagogues and other Jewish institutions due to its historical ties with Israel.

The arrests coincide with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and international scrutiny of Israel's actions. Recent demonstrations in Berlin have called for an end to German military cooperation with Israel, advocating for a cessation of arms trade and military equipment exchanges.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.