Türkiye Issues Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Over Flotilla Detentions

Türkiye has issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over allegations that humanitarian flotilla activists bound for Gaza were detained and tortured. The warrant includes accusations of genocide and crimes against humanity.

Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gürlek announced the decision on Saturday (August 22). He said the Justice Ministry had issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Israeli military member Afek Moskowitz over an alleged attack on flotilla activists in international waters.

The flotilla departed Spain in May carrying food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies for Palestinians in Gaza. Around 430 activists from countries including France, Italy, Australia and Spain were aboard some 50 vessels. Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla before it reached Gaza, detained the activists and later deported them to their respective countries.

After returning home, several activists alleged that they had been subjected to mistreatment and torture by Israeli police and military personnel while in detention. France, Italy and Australia have already taken legal action against Israel over the allegations.

Gürlek said Netanyahu and Moskowitz face accusations including crimes against humanity, genocide, unlawful deprivation of liberty, intentional attacks and torture, destruction of property, serious looting and hijacking of vehicles.

He also called on Türkiye’s Interior Ministry to seek a Red Notice for their arrest.