Turkey Issues Interpol Red Notice Against Netanyahu Over Gaza Flotilla Incident

Turkey has escalated its diplomatic conflict with Israel by requesting an Interpol Red Notice against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of genocide related to the Gaza flotilla incident. Turkish Justice Minister Akın Görlük announced the move, which follows a July 14 arrest warrant issued in Turkey as part of ongoing legal proceedings. The flotilla, known as the "Freedom Flotilla," was intercepted by Israeli forces in the Mediterranean last year, leading to international controversy and legal actions against Israeli officials, including Netanyahu.

The Turkish Justice Ministry stated that investigations are underway against 35 suspects, including Netanyahu and an individual named Afek Moscovich, on charges ranging from crimes against humanity and genocide to aggravated assault and property damage. The ministry condemned Israel's policies in Gaza and emphasized that those responsible for alleged crimes will not be granted immunity. Turkey vowed to use all available national and international legal mechanisms to hold accountable those it accuses of crimes against humanity.

In response to rising tensions, Netanyahu convened a security meeting with intelligence chiefs to discuss future developments, particularly concerning Syria and Turkey. This followed a Turkish Defense Ministry statement denying that a Turkish delegation was present at a Syrian base recently attacked by Israel but reaffirming Turkey's firm support for the Assad regime, a stance that worries Israel due to fears of increased Turkish influence in Syria.

The Red Notice is an international alert used to seek the location and arrest of wanted persons. Netanyahu is already subject to an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court in The Hague, and Turkey has previously issued arrest warrants against him. The diplomatic rift highlights the deepening hostility between Israel and Turkey amid ongoing regional conflicts and disputes over Gaza and Syria.