ISTANBUL, Nov 7 — The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office announced on Thursday that it has launched a wide-ranging investigation into alleged crimes committed by Israeli officials against civilians in Gaza and against activists aboard the “Küresel Sumud Flotilla,” which attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to the blockaded enclave.
In a statement, the prosecutor’s office said Israeli actions since 7 October 2023 — including strikes that killed hundreds of civilians, attacks on medical teams and the bombing of healthcare facilities — constitute potential violations of international humanitarian law. The statement also cited earlier incidents, including the killing of 6-year-old Hind Recep in January 2024.
According to prosecutors, the Israeli navy intercepted the aid flotilla in international waters while it was en route to Gaza, resulting in the alleged abduction and mistreatment of activists. Following their arrival in Türkiye on 10 October 2025, the activists underwent medical and psychological examinations, with findings submitted to investigators.
The investigation covers alleged offenses including looting, aggravated robbery, property damage, torture, unlawful deprivation of liberty and hijacking of transport vehicles, under both Turkish law and international conventions. Authorities said they also coordinated with the Istanbul Police Department and the National Intelligence Organization to identify suspects and verify the activists’ accounts.
The prosecutor’s office said representatives of the flotilla submitted additional petitions and evidence, prompting a broader review of what they described as systematic attacks by the Israeli state in Gaza.
Citing the suspects’ absence from Türkiye, an Istanbul court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Tamara Ben Gvir, Chief of General Staff Eyal Zamir, and Navy Fleet Commander David Saar Salama. A total of 37 Israeli officials are now subject to warrants on charges under Turkish law of genocide and crimes against humanity.
Prosecutors said the investigation is ongoing and will continue “robustly and in multiple directions.
