Spanish prosecutors include flotilla attack to broaden probe into Israeli crimes in Gaza

By Necva Tastan Sevinc

ISTANBUL (AA) — Spain’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has expanded its investigation into alleged crimes committed by Israel in Gaza to also cover the recent attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla, authorities announced on Thursday.

In a statement, the prosecutor’s office said the purpose of the investigation is to establish the scope of the incidents and the conditions under which they took place.

“The seizure of vessels belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla en route to Gaza has been included in the investigation launched on Sept. 18 to preserve sources of evidence of possible international human rights violations by the Israeli army in Gaza and to cooperate in potential proceedings before international courts,” the statement read.

The prosecutor’s office requested detailed information regarding the flag of the affected ships, the maritime coordinates where the intervention occurred, the nationality of those on board, the nature of the cargo, and the consular assistance provided to Spanish citizens.

On Sept. 18, prosecutors launched an investigation to determine whether the Israeli army's actions in Gaza could be considered crimes under Article 607 and subsequent articles of the Spanish Penal Code, which cover serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.

Meanwhile, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares and Defense Minister Margarita Robles reiterated their call for the immediate release of members of the Global Sumud Flotilla detained by Israeli forces.