In a move that has stirred global attention, Turkiye announced arrest warrants for genocide against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several senior Israeli officials in connection with the ongoing war in Gaza.
According to a statement from the Istanbul prosecutor’s office, warrants have been issued for 37 individuals, including Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. The officials are accused of committing genocide and crimes against humanity in what Turkiye described as a systematic campaign in Gaza.
The statement further mentioned the “Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital”, which Turkiye built in Gaza and which was bombed earlier this year. Ankara has long been a vocal critic of Israel’s military operations and had previously joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide.
Israel responded swiftly and sharply. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar rejected the move, calling it “a contemptible PR stunt” by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, while accusing Turkiye’s judiciary of political bias. He also referenced the recent detention of Istanbul’s Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, claiming it was politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Hamas welcomed Turkiye’s decision, calling it a “commendable measure” and praising the Turkish leadership for standing with justice and humanity.
Tensions remain high as a fragile ceasefire continues under a regional peace framework. Turkiye has expressed interest in participating in an international stabilisation force for post-war Gaza, though Israel has objected, saying Turkiye’s ties with Hamas disqualify it from any such role.
Despite mounting international criticism, Israel continues to deny accusations of genocide, calling them “false” and “antisemitic.”
In a world increasingly divided by political interests, Turkiye’s bold legal action underscores a growing demand for accountability and justice — not just in courts, but in the conscience of humanity. Whether or not these warrants lead to any tangible legal consequences, they mark a significant moment in the global dialogue on war, power, and responsibility.
