France launches probe into alleged Israeli war crimes against Gaza flotilla activists

French judicial authorities have opened a preliminary investigation into alleged torture and war crimes committed by Israeli forces against activists from the Global Sumud flotilla that attempted to breach Israel's maritime blockade of Gaza in mid‑May. The flotilla, consisting of about 50 vessels and carrying roughly 430 activists—including around thirty French nationals—was intercepted in international waters near Cyprus. Upon detention in Israel, activists reported beatings, forced kneeling, exposure to cold, sexual harassment and other humiliating treatment. A video released by Israeli security minister Itamar Ben Gvir showing the detained activists sparked diplomatic outrage.

Following the reports, France's foreign ministry filed a formal complaint with the Paris anti‑terrorist prosecutor, prompting the opening of a probe by the Central Office for Crimes against Humanity. The French government has also barred Ben Gvir from entering France. The European Union and several European countries have condemned the Israeli actions, calling for accountability.

The investigation aims to determine whether the alleged acts constitute violations of the 1949 Geneva Conventions and other international law standards.