Istanbul Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Over Crimes Against Humanity

An Istanbul High Criminal Court has ordered the issuance of an international arrest warrant, or Red Notice, for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The decision, handed down by the Istanbul 11th High Criminal Court, is part of an ongoing trial concerning the military interception of the Sumud aid flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza and included Turkish nationals among its passengers.

Severe Charges Under International Law

The judicial ruling targets Netanyahu under a broad Turkish criminal lawsuit. Prosecutors have levied severe accusations against the Israeli leader, including genocide, crimes against humanity, torture, and intentional injury.

Further allegations in the indictment include property damage, aggravated looting, obstruction of transportation, and the hijacking or unlawful detention of vessels.

Expanding Jurisdiction and Legal Precedents

The latest order follows a preliminary ruling in November 2025, when an Istanbul court issued initial arrest warrants for Netanyahu and dozens of Israeli officials.

Those warrants addressed both the flotilla incident and actions taken during the military campaign in Gaza.

In April 2026, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office finalized an indictment seeking aggravated life sentences for the defendants.

Turkish prosecutors argue that Türkiye has clear legal jurisdiction over the case under international maritime law.