Turkey is seeking international action against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla and the detention of activists on board.
Turkish Justice Minister, Akin Gurlek, said the Justice Ministry had asked the Interior Ministry to pursue Interpol red notices for Netanyahu and another Israeli suspect, Afek Moskovitch.
The request forms part of an ongoing judicial case concerning the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters.
Gurlek said arrest warrants had been issued against Netanyahu and Moskovitch on July 14 over a range of alleged offences, including genocide, crimes against humanity, aggravated deprivation of liberty, intentional injury and torture.
The charges also include property damage, aggravated robbery and the hijacking of transport vehicles.
The case centres on the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza when Israeli forces intercepted the vessels in May.
Activists aboard the flotilla were detained before being deported, prompting further condemnation from Turkey and other critics of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Ankara has been one of Israel’s most vocal critics since the war began and has previously pursued domestic legal action against Netanyahu over the conflict.
Israel has rejected allegations of genocide and other violations linked to its military operations in Gaza.
Turkey’s latest move now seeks to take the case beyond its domestic courts by requesting international police cooperation.
