Türkiye Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu Over Gaza War Crimes

Istanbul: Türkiye has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several senior Israeli officials on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity related to Israel’s war on Gaza.

According to the Istanbul prosecutor’s office, a total of 37 Israeli officials are targeted, including Defence Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Army Chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. The full list of names has not been released publicly.

Turkish prosecutors accuse Israel of committing systematic atrocities in Gaza since the war began in October 2023.
The report mentions the October 17, 2023, bombing of al-Ahli Baptist Hospital, which killed about 500 people, and the February 29, 2024, destruction of medical equipment by Israeli soldiers.

Authorities said Gaza has been under a total blockade, cutting off humanitarian aid, food, and medicine — actions they say amount to crimes against humanity under international law.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissed Türkiye’s move, calling it a “PR stunt by [President] Erdogan.”
Israeli officials accused Türkiye of using political gestures to boost its regional image amid global criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

The Palestinian group Hamas praised Türkiye’s decision, describing it as a “commendable step” that reflects justice and solidarity with Palestinians. Hamas said Türkiye’s move shows a strong commitment to holding Israeli leaders accountable for war crimes.

This decision comes nearly a year after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes.
Türkiye has also supported South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), intensifying its diplomatic campaign against Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Since October 2023, Israel’s military campaign has killed over 68,000 Palestinians and injured more than 170,000, according to recent estimates.
Gaza remains under heavy bombing and blockade, with aid agencies warning of severe hunger, disease, and humanitarian collapse.