Spanish judge expands probe into Israeli military regarding Gaza flotilla

A judge at Spain’s Audiencia Nacional, Francisco de Jorge, has expanded a judicial investigation into Israeli military commanders regarding the boarding of the Sumud Global Flotilla in October last year. The flotilla was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The investigation, which was initially limited to allegations of illegal detention on Spanish-flagged vessels, will now include potential crimes of torture, damages, and injuries. The judge granted a partial appeal filed by the Spanish Communist Party and Izquierda Unida, noting that evidence suggests individuals may have been subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment on Spanish-flagged ships.

While the court is ordering inquiries to identify the responsible parties and determine if they are in Spain, the judge stated he is not yet assuming jurisdiction over specific individuals for crimes committed outside of Spanish territory. Additionally, the judge rejected requests to classify the incident as maritime piracy, noting that the military personnel were executing political orders rather than acting for personal profit or gain.