Gaza Herald – The Italian Public Prosecutor’s Office announced on Friday, October 16, 2026, that it has expanded its investigation into alleged violations against activists aboard the Global Freedom Flotilla. The inquiry now includes Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and twelve other high-ranking officials from Israel’s military and security establishments, according to Reuters.
The Rome prosecutor’s office stated in a declaration that the probe examines suspicions of crimes including torture, kidnapping, physical terrorism, theft, and property damage. These charges stem from the interception of boats bound for Gaza by Israeli forces during two missions of the Global Freedom Flotilla in 2025 and 2026.
The expansion follows complaints filed by fifty Italian citizens who claimed they were detained by Israeli authorities during the operations. The first mission took place between September and October 2025, while the second occurred between April and May 2026. Both attempts aimed to break the siege on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to its residents.
According to data provided by the Italian prosecution, activists involved in the first mission reported suffering beatings, injuries, and death threats. They also described being insulted and accused of terrorism while in custody. Participants in the second mission alleged even harsher treatment, including beatings in the dark, use of stun guns, and rubber bullets.
The judicial investigation seeks to reconstruct the circumstances surrounding the boat interceptions and detentions. Prosecutors aim to verify the submitted complaints and determine individual responsibilities for those linked to the incidents. This process is part of a broader context regarding the management of the siege and legal accountability for it.
In addition to Katz, the measures include Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, alongside officials from the army, police, and Israel Prison Service. No immediate comment was issued by Zamir, while Katz did not respond to requests for comment, as reported by Reuters.
Previously, the Italian investigation focused solely on National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his extreme stance toward Palestinians. Ben-Gfir denied undergoing investigation in June, according to the report. The scope widened due to complaints regarding the treatment of flotilla activists during their detention.
The Italian Public Prosecutor’s Office sent a request for judicial assistance to Israel in June 2026 to obtain necessary information. The goal is to complete the investigation, reconstruct facts, and determine individual responsibility for alleged violations. It remains unclear whether Israeli authorities responded or provided the requested information.
This legal move occurs amid ongoing controversy over Israeli forces intercepting ships carrying international activists seeking to reach Gaza. Expanding the probe to include senior military, security, and political figures places more Israeli officials under potential judicial scrutiny, though final legal liability depends on investigation results.
This report was produced in the Gaza Herald newsroom.
