France opens probe into alleged torture of its citizens on Gaza flotilla

On 5 June 2026 the French National Anti‑Terrorist Prosecutor (PNAT) announced a preliminary investigation into allegations that French activists intercepted by the Israeli navy during the Gaza flotilla on 18 May 2026 were subjected to torture and other war‑crime violations. The probe, delegated to the Office Central for the Fight Against Crimes Against Humanity, was launched after the French government formally reported the mistreatment of 37 French nationals among the 430 militants seized at sea.

Witnesses described severe beatings and degrading treatment, and a video released by Israeli minister Itamar Ben Gvir showed detainees kneeling, handcuffed and with heads forced to the ground. In response, France barred Ben Gvir from entering its territory, marking a significant diplomatic sanction. The investigation could lead to international arrest warrants and heightened legal scrutiny of Israel’s actions in enforcing the maritime blockade of Gaza.