ISTUNBUL (Dunya News) – A sharp war of words has erupted between Turkey and Israel after Ankara filed charges against Israeli leaders over the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in October 2025.
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Turkey’s Foreign Ministry strongly criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as the “Hitler of our times” in response to his recent remarks on social media.
The dispute centres on an indictment prepared by Istanbul prosecutors against 35 individuals, including Netanyahu, over the naval operation targeting the “Sumud” flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Turkish authorities are seeking aggravated life sentences along with prison terms running into thousands of years on multiple charges.
In its statement, the ministry also referred to an arrest warrant issued in November 2024 by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. It accused Netanyahu of attempting to undermine peace efforts and pursue expansionist policies in the region.
Ankara further stated that criticism directed at President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan by Israeli officials reflects their discomfort with Turkey’s consistent stance on the issue.
Israel, however, rejected the accusations. Netanyahu said his country would continue to act against Iran and its allies, while Defence Minister Israel Katz dismissed Turkey’s legal action as politically motivated.
According to the indictment, Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters, detained activists on board, and transferred them to Israel. Among those detained were climate activist Greta Thunberg and several other international figures.
