Turkish court issues Interpol red notice for Netanyahu
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A high criminal court in Istanbul on Tuesday issued an international arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu through Interpol, Turkish media reported. The warrant is linked to the interception of a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza in May 2026. Israel rejects the charges.
The Warrant
The Istanbul court ruled unanimously to request an Interpol red notice for Netanyahu, classifying him as a particularly dangerous criminal, according to Bengü Türk. The case stems from an indictment by the Istanbul prosecutor's office against 35 individuals, including Netanyahu, over the armed seizure of vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla. The flotilla, comprising about 60 ships and 426 participants from 39 countries, was intercepted by Israel in May 2026 while attempting to breach the Gaza blockade.
Charges and Defendants
The indictment charges Netanyahu, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, former defense minister Yoav Gallant, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir with crimes against humanity, genocide, deprivation of liberty, intentional infliction of bodily harm, torture, robbery, destruction of property, and vehicle seizure. The prosecutor is seeking life imprisonment for all defendants. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had previously threatened Netanyahu, saying he would soon 'learn a lesson' from Muslims worldwide.
Israel's Response
Israel rejects the allegations, arguing that the flotilla was organized by Turkey to breach the naval blockade of Gaza. Israeli authorities stated they repeatedly warned organizers not to violate maritime borders, but participants ignored the warnings. After interception, the vessels were diverted to Israeli ports, and activists were detained and later deported, according to the 9th Channel.
What's Next
The Interpol notice could lead to Netanyahu's arrest if he travels to any of Interpol's 196 member countries. It remains unclear whether Turkey will pursue extradition requests or how Israel will respond diplomatically.
3 sources
Turkish court issues Interpol red notice for Netanyahu
