Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation into Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. This was reported by the Reuters news agency.
According to reports, the inquiry is being conducted in connection with the detention and treatment of participants of a humanitarian flotilla that set out to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip.
The Rome prosecutor's investigation focuses on Ben-Gvir's actions during the time activists were held at Israel's Ashdod port. Reports indicate that during this time, the activists were held with their hands tied behind their backs.
As part of the investigation, the actions of Israeli officials during the inspection of the ships and the arrest of the activists are also being examined. Among those detained were Italian citizens.
The prosecutor's office is also legally assessing possible instances of torture and kidnapping.
Earlier, the Rome prosecutor's office had initiated a separate investigation into the detention of Italian citizens when a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza was stopped in international waters near Greece. This was prompted by three official complaints.
Let us recall that in mid-May, the Israeli navy stopped the "Sumud" humanitarian flotilla heading towards Gaza in international waters. Videos released later, showing detained activists kneeling with their hands bound by plastic ties, sparked widespread international debate.
Additionally, images circulated on social media showed Itamar Ben-Gvir walking past the detained activists while waving an Israeli flag. After these images drew sharp criticism, the flotilla participants were released.
