Istanbul Prosecutor Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu

ISTANBUL, Nov 8: The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has issued arrest warrants for 37 individuals, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over alleged “genocide” in connection with the war in Gaza.

Other officials named include Defence Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. According to the prosecutor’s office, Israel has “systematically targeted civilians in the Gaza Strip” during its military operations following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks on Israeli civilians.

The warrants reportedly cite incidents from the early days of the war, including the October 17, 2023 attack on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital. Israeli and U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that the hospital explosion resulted from a failed rocket launch by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Israel denies intentionally targeting civilians, highlighting efforts to evacuate non-combatants and facilitate humanitarian aid.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is known for his support of Hamas. The Istanbul prosecutor’s office has previously issued arrest warrants against journalists and political opponents, including opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu, who is currently facing trial on treason charges.

Observers note the historical context of Turkey itself being accused of genocide against Armenians between 1915 and 1923, during which up to 1.5 million Armenians were killed or starved. While the U.S., Canada, most EU countries, and Russia officially recognize the Armenian genocide, countries like the U.K., Australia, and Israel have not, though in August 2025, Netanyahu personally acknowledged the atrocities.

The development is expected to heighten tensions between Israel and Turkey and could have significant diplomatic implications as international responses unfold.