French anti-terrorism prosecutors have opened a preliminary investigation into suspected torture and war crimes regarding the alleged mistreatment of French nationals. The probe focuses on activists who were part of a flotilla bound for Gaza.
The investigation was opened at the request of the French government to examine reports of violent mistreatment of participants in the Global Sumud Flotilla. On May 18, Israel intercepted the flotilla and detained more than 430 activists from countries around the world. The activists stated they were seeking to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge the naval blockade of the Palestinian enclave.
French activists have accused Israeli forces of abuse and torture while they were in custody. However, Israeli authorities have denied mistreating the detainees.