Investigations by Greece’s National Intelligence Service (EYP) and the counterterrorism unit are in full swing following the arrest of a 37-year-old Palestinian from the Gaza Strip who is accused of being a member of Hamas and, according to reports, of planning an attack on Israeli targets, possibly involving explosives on a cruise ship.

According to information from Cretalive, the suspect had been living in the area of Agios Nikolaos, Crete, for nearly two years and was employed at a hotel. He had no family in Crete and, according to local sources, maintained a low profile.

Authorities were led to his arrest through intelligence originating from Cyprus, where individuals allegedly connected to Hamas-related terrorist activity in Jerusalem (specifically bombing attacks) had recently been arrested.

Reports indicate that during the investigation, authorities identified a telephone believed to have served as a key link in the network, leading investigators to Crete and specifically to Agios Nikolaos.

According to the same sources, the 37-year-old allegedly admitted to having contacts with other individuals and participating in activities aimed at creating the necessary conditions and mechanisms for carrying out a terrorist attack against Israeli targets in a European country.

Authorities believe he was still in the preparation phase and did not yet possess all the means required to move to the next stage. Investigators estimate that a cruise ship may have been a potential target, although the plan had not advanced beyond the stage of gathering materials.

He is also reported to have already ordered some of the materials that would have been used, but was arrested before he could make use of them.

It is noted that the 37-year-old, who was alone at the time of his arrest, is legally residing in Greece.