In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Turkey has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several senior officials, accusing them of genocide and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office announced on Friday that warrants had been issued for 37 high-ranking Israeli figures, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and Army Chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. The charges stem from Israel’s military actions in Gaza since October 2023, which Turkey claims have involved systematic attacks on civilians, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. Specific incidents cited include the bombing of al-Ahli Baptist Hospital, the destruction of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, and the killing of six-year-old Hind Rajab. The investigation also covers Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian aid mission, in international waters. Activists aboard the flotilla have provided testimony and forensic evidence supporting the case. Israel has vehemently rejected the charges, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissing them as a ‘PR stunt’ by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The move comes as Turkey seeks a role in the international stabilization force envisioned for post-war Gaza under US President Donald Trump’s plan, a proposal Israeli leaders have consistently opposed.