Kathmandu— Turkey is seeking an Interpol red notice for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of genocide, crimes against humanity, and torture related to Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla for Gaza in May. Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced on Friday that arrest warrants were issued on July 14 for Netanyahu and another suspect as part of a case involving 35 individuals. The move comes amid escalating tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem, with both leaders trading insults over Israel’s actions in Gaza and Turkey's criticism.

Escalating Accusations

Gurlek stated that Turkey will utilize all legal avenues to hold Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza. This isn't the first time domestic arrest warrants have been issued for Netanyahu within Turkey regarding Israeli attacks, but this latest action marks a significant escalation by seeking international involvement through Interpol. The Turkish Justice Ministry has formally requested the Interior Ministry issue red notices, effectively requesting that Netanyahu be sought internationally.

Flotilla Interception and International Response

The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprised of approximately 50 vessels, departed Turkey in May with the intention of delivering aid to Gaza. Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters, detaining activists who were subsequently deported after being held in an Israeli prison. The interception sparked widespread condemnation internationally, with France, Italy and Australia also initiating judicial proceedings related to the incident. A video released by Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, showing him provoking detained flotilla activists further fueled outrage.

Tit-for-Tat Rhetoric

Netanyahu's office dismissed Gurlek’s statement as a “pathetic attempt to intimidate” Israeli leaders and soldiers, characterizing Turkey as lacking democratic credentials. The office accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of antisemitism and vowed continued forceful action against what it perceives as Turkey’s destabilizing efforts in the region. In response, Erdogan’s office denounced Netanyahu's “petty political tactics,” condemning Israel’s attempt to portray Turkey as a threat.

Turkey remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing legal recourse against those it deems responsible for actions in Gaza, while Israel maintains its stance and accuses Turkey of undermining regional stability.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.