Italy investigates Ben-Gvir over Gaza flotilla, alleging ‘torture and kidnapping’ – ASNA
Italian authorities have reportedly opened an investigation into Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over the handling of activists aboard a Gaza-bound flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces earlier this year.
According to Italy’s ANSA news agency, citing the Rome Prosecutor’s Office, the probe has been ongoing for several weeks at the Piazzale Clodio courthouse.
It concerns Israel’s boarding of a flotilla that included Italian nationals among its passengers, and it reportedly examines allegations of “torture and kidnapping” tied to the activists’ detention and treatment after the operation.
The flotilla left Turkey in mid-May carrying about 430 activists attempting to reach the Gaza Strip. Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessel and transferred those on board to Israeli territory.
After the operation, Ben-Gvir visited the site where the activists were first held and made remarks that drew international attention. He said, “Welcome to Israel. We are the homeowners. The summer camp is over. Anyone acting against the State of Israel will encounter a determined country. The people of Israel live.”
Video footage of his comments, along with allegations about the treatment of detainees, has prompted criticism from several countries and international organizations.
