Italy Adds Defense Minister Katz and Military Chief to Flotilla Torture Probe

Rome prosecutors expanded an investigation into the treatment of roughly 50 Italian citizens detained during Gaza flotilla missions, naming senior Israeli officials alongside Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Italian prosecutors have expanded a criminal investigation into the treatment of detainees from Gaza flotilla missions, naming Defense Minister Israel Katz, the IDF Chief of Staff, and other senior security officials as suspects, N12 and Haaretz reported. The inquiry was initiated following complaints filed by approximately 50 Italian citizens detained by Israeli forces during two Global Sumud Flotilla voyages.

According to reports, the allegations involve offenses of kidnapping and torture. The expanded list of suspects, joining an existing probe against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, also includes the police commissioner, the head of the Israel Prison Service, and navy commanders.

An official response from Israeli authorities regarding the Italian investigation has not yet been released.