Turkey seeks Interpol Red Notice against Netanyahu over Gaza aid flotilla interception

ANKARA: Turkey has moved to seek an Interpol Red Notice against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the interception of a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gürlek said in a post on X that a Red Notice had also been sought against Afek Moskovich, a senior official in Netanyahu's office.

In May, the Global Sumud Flotilla set sail for Gaza with around 430 activists from more than 40 countries, carrying humanitarian aid for the Palestinian territory. The flotilla sought to challenge Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. Israeli forces, however, intercepted most of the vessels in international waters and detained hundreds of activists. Turkey said 48 of its nationals were among those detained.

Legal proceedings are already under way in Turkey against Netanyahu and 34 other Israeli officials in connection with the incident. They face allegations of crimes against humanity, genocide, unlawful detention, intentional injury, torture, destruction of property and looting. Turkey's latest move comes amid legal action in other countries, including Italy, Australia and France, in connection with the incident.

Gürlek said those responsible for alleged crimes committed in Gaza would not be allowed to evade justice. He said Turkey would use all available avenues under national and international law to pursue action against those responsible.

An Istanbul court has reportedly directed Turkish authorities to initiate the process of seeking an Interpol Red Notice against Netanyahu and Moskovich.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu's office strongly criticised Turkey's move. Israel described Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as an “antisemitic dictator” and said attempts to threaten Israeli leaders and military personnel would not succeed.