The list of suspects includes Defence Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, according to a statement from Istanbul’s prosecutor’s office. The full list was not released.
Turkey accused the officials of “genocide and crimes against humanity” during Israel’s war on Gaza that began in October 2023. The statement highlighted the October 17, 2023, attack on the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital that killed 500 people and said Israeli soldiers deliberately destroyed medical equipment on February 29, 2024.
It also mentioned that Gaza remains under blockade, denying victims access to humanitarian aid. The Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, built by Turkey in Gaza, was bombed by Israel in March.
Israel rejected the claims strongly. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called the announcement a “PR stunt” by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Hamas welcomed Turkey’s move, calling it a “commendable measure confirming the sincere positions of the Turkish people and their leaders, who are committed to justice, humanity, and fraternity with our oppressed Palestinian people.”
Read more: Israel war in Gaza: YouTube deletes videos on genocide to silence human rights voices
Turkey’s announcement follows similar international actions. Last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes. Turkey also joined South Africa’s case accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice.
Since October 2023, Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 68,875 Palestinians and wounded 170,679.
Turkey’s move shows it is taking a strong stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza. The arrest warrants may increase international pressure on Israel. Meanwhile, Israel’s rejection signals that the issue will likely remain highly contentious. The focus on hospitals and humanitarian aid highlights the human cost of the conflict, making this news critical for global attention.
