Italy Investigates Israeli Defence Minister Katz Over Flotilla Activist Abuse

Al Jazeera · world

Italian prosecutors have placed Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz and 12 other officials under investigation for alleged torture, kidnapping, and sexual assault of activists. The probe stems from complaints by 50 Italian citizens detained during two Global Sumud Flotilla missions in 2025 and 2026. Activists reported beatings, death threats, and at least 15 cases of sexual assault, including rape. The flotillas aimed to break the Gaza blockade by delivering humanitarian aid. Under Italian law, crimes committed abroad against Italian citizens can be prosecuted in Rome.