Italy probes Israeli minister, others

ROME:

Italian prosecutors have placed Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz and 13 other senior Israeli officials under investigation over the alleged mistreatment of activists detained during Gaza-bound flotilla missions in 2025 and 2026.

The case follows complaints by 50 Italian citizens detained after two Global Sumud Flotilla missions. Previously, the investigation focused on Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, concerns suspected torture, kidnapping, personal injury, robbery and damage, prosecutors said on Friday.

Activists alleged beatings, injuries, death threats and insults, while those detained during the second mission reported beatings in darkness and the use of tasers and rubber bullets. Among those named are Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir and senior military, police and prison officials.