Rome Prosecutors Add Israel Katz and Eyal Zamir to Gaza Flotilla Investigation
Rome prosecutors expanded their probe into the Gaza flotilla incidents, adding Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to an investigation that already included Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and other senior Israeli officials.
Rome prosecutors announced on Friday that their ongoing investigation into the treatment of Italian activists during the "Sumoud" flotilla incidents targeting Gaza has expanded. The probe now includes not only National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, but also Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, and nine other senior Israeli military and police officials.
According to Italian reports, the 12 officials face serious allegations including torture, kidnapping, unlawful maritime boarding, poor detention conditions, robbery, humiliating treatment, and violations of fundamental rights such as access to legal representation. The investigation was launched following complaints filed by 50 Italian citizens detained by Israel during operations against the World Sumoud flotillas in October of last year and May of this year.
The May incident sparked international outrage after Minister Ben Gvir published footage showing him confronting blindfolded detainees kneeling with their faces to the floor at a facility in Ashdod. Italian President Sergio Mattarella sharply condemned the actions at the time, stating that Ben Gvir had sunk to a new low. Further details are expected soon.
