Turkey issues arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza

The Istanbul prosecutor’s office announced that 37 Israeli officials are under investigation for what it described as “systematic crimes” against the Palestinian population. Those named include Defence Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and army chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. The full list of suspects has not been publicly released.

In its statement, the prosecutor’s office said the officials were accused of “genocide and crimes against humanity perpetrated systematically” in Gaza. It also cited the March bombing of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, which was built by Turkey in the enclave and damaged during Israeli airstrikes.

Israel immediately condemned the move, calling it politically motivated. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissed the warrants on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Israel firmly rejects, with contempt, the latest PR stunt by the tyrant Erdoğan.”

The development marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Ankara and Tel Aviv, whose relations have long been strained over the Gaza conflict. Turkey has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s military actions, frequently accusing it of violating international law and targeting civilians.

Last year, Turkey joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The ICJ proceedings have intensified global debate over accountability and humanitarian law in wartime conduct.

A fragile ceasefire has been in effect in Gaza since October 10, under the framework of U.S. President Donald Trump’s regional peace initiative. Despite this, sporadic violence and airstrikes have continued, leaving much of the territory devastated and humanitarian conditions dire.

The Turkish government has framed its legal actions as part of a broader push to seek justice for Palestinians and hold Israeli leaders accountable through international mechanisms. Israel, however, has repeatedly argued that its actions in Gaza are acts of self-defense against militant attacks.