Türkiye Today
Türkiye’s Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office issued arrest warrants Friday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and 36 other suspects on charges of genocide related to Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
The warrants target multiple high-ranking Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, Border and Security Minister Eyal Zamir, and Israeli Naval Forces Commander David Saar Salama, according to a press statement from the prosecutor’s office dated Nov. 7, 2025.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference in Jerusalem on May 21, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Investigation cites hospital attacks and civilian casualties
The investigation centers on what Turkish authorities describe as systematic violence against civilians in Gaza. The prosecutor’s office cited specific incidents dating back to October 2023, including attacks on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital on Oct. 17, 2023, and damage to the Ebli Baptist Hospital on Oct. 21, 2023, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties.
Turkish prosecutors also referenced the killing of aid workers from the World Central Kitchen on April 1, 2024, when several employees were struck during humanitarian operations.
The charges stem from allegations that Israeli military operations have systematically targeted civilians and infrastructure in Gaza, blocking humanitarian aid and preventing access to medical assistance. Prosecutors pointed to statements made through Sumud Flotilla which they say attempted to deliver aid to Gaza through maritime routes.
Recent complaints prompted formal investigation
The investigation was prompted by complaints filed with Istanbul courts on Oct. 4, Oct. 7, Oct. 9, and Oct. 10, 2025. Turkish authorities conducted the inquiry under Istanbul Court of Justice jurisdiction and in coordination with Türkiye’s Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The prosecutor’s office stated the warrants were issued with the authority granted to them under established legal procedures, describing the alleged actions as crimes against humanity that warrant ongoing investigation.
Türkiye has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which began after Hamas’s attack on southern Israel in October 2023. The Turkish government has suspended diplomatic and trade relations with Israel over the conflict.