France Refers Gaza Flotilla Abuse Case Prosecutors
France has officially referred allegations involving the alleged mistreatment of French activists detained during a Gaza-bound aid flotilla to public prosecutors, following reports of possible criminal conduct during their detention.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that the decision was made after receiving a detailed report from France’s consul general in Türkiye, which described allegations including physical abuse, humiliation, exposure to cold conditions, and sexual violence against detained citizens.
Barrot said the matter had been submitted under Article 40 of the French Code of Criminal Procedure, placing the case under judicial review to determine whether formal investigations will proceed.
He added that French authorities had earlier summoned Israel’s ambassador following separate concerns regarding actions involving Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, which Paris described as unacceptable behavior.
Following diplomatic engagement, France also imposed restrictions on Ben-Gvir’s entry into its territory.
The foreign minister emphasized that France’s priority is the protection of its citizens abroad, including those participating in humanitarian missions such as the Gaza flotilla, which the government has publicly opposed.
The allegations are based on accounts collected by French officials who met with activists after their detention by Israeli forces.
Barrot said the final decision on legal proceedings now rests with the French judicial system.
The incident stems from the interception of the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla in international waters while en route to Gaza. Videos from the operation showed Israeli naval forces boarding vessels and detaining participants.
Footage later circulated online showing detained activists in custody conditions that sparked international criticism and diplomatic backlash.
Following their release, volunteers from multiple countries were evacuated, including a large group of Turkish citizens involved in the mission.
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