France opens ‘war crimes’ probe into Israel’s treatment of Gaza activists
Article excerpt
France has launched a war crimes investigation into Israeli forces' treatment of French activists who participated in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The activists say they endured abuse and torture at the hands of Israeli personnel. The probe marks an escalation in scrutiny of Israel's conduct during operations against vessels attempting to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza. French authorities are examining allegations made by the flotilla participants, who claim mistreatment while in Israeli custody. The investigation reflects growing international legal pressure on Israel over its Gaza operations.