Turkey judges Netanyahu in absentia for flotilla

A Turkish court has begun a trial in absentia against 35 Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for their involvement in the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to reach Gaza in 2025. The charges include crimes against humanity and genocide, with prosecutors seeking aggravated life sentences totaling nearly 4,600 years for each defendant. The flotilla aimed to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge Israel's maritime blockade. The trial occurs amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Turkey and Israel, exacerbated by Israel's military actions in Gaza following Hamas attacks in October 2023. Turkey has criticized Israel's military operations while maintaining contacts with Hamas leaders.