Turkey says it will seek an Interpol red notice for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a criminal case linked to an aid flotilla heading toward Gaza.
Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced the move on Friday. He said Turkish authorities had issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and another suspect. The case involves 35 people and includes allegations of genocide, crimes against humanity and torture.
Turkey Seeks Interpol Action
Gurlek said Turkey’s Justice Ministry asked the Interior Ministry to request Interpol red notices for Netanyahu and the other suspect.
An Interpol red notice asks police forces around the world to locate and provisionally arrest a wanted person. Interpol reviews each request before deciding whether to issue a notice.
Turkey linked the case to the Global Sumud Flotilla, which has tried to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Turkish authorities say Israeli forces opened fire on at least two vessels during the flotilla’s latest mission in May.
Israeli forces have intercepted previous flotilla missions. Israel rejects Turkey’s accusations and denies violating international law.
Israel Rejects Turkey’s Move
Netanyahu’s office strongly rejected the Turkish announcement. It accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of trying to intimidate Israeli leaders and soldiers.
The Israeli government also dismissed Turkey’s legal efforts against Netanyahu. It said the Turkish move would not succeed.
Turkey has repeatedly criticized Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Ankara has also called for international action over what it describes as Israeli violations of human rights and international law.
Turkey and Israel Clash Over Syria
The latest dispute comes as tensions between Turkey and Israel continue to grow. The two countries have also clashed over developments in Syria.
Israel recently carried out airstrikes on a Syrian air base. Israeli officials said they feared Turkey could deploy troops there. Turkey condemned the strikes, while the United States also criticized the Israeli action.
Turkey has expanded its influence in Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in 2024. Ankara supports Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Israel has expressed concern about Turkey’s growing role in the country.
The Interpol request could further increase tensions between Turkey and Israel as Ankara continues its campaign for international accountability over the Gaza war.
