France Opens Criminal Probe into Israeli Treatment of French Flotilla Activists

France's Foreign Ministry asked the public prosecutor's office on May 29, 2026 to open a criminal investigation into the treatment of French nationals detained by Israeli forces following the interception of the Gaza-bound flotilla on May 17-20. Allegations submitted include beatings, sexual violence, exposure to cold, and systematic humiliation during detention at Israeli military facilities. Italy had earlier opened a criminal probe on kidnapping and sexual assault charges. The Netanyahu government rejected the investigation as political interference, while human rights groups called it a landmark accountability step. The investigation follows France's May 26 entry ban on National Security Minister Ben-Gvir, who posted a video mocking kneeling detainees at Ashdod Port. Approximately 25+ activists, including several French citizens, were detained before being released. The French probe adds to mounting judicial and diplomatic pressure from NATO allies on specific Israeli officials, with France joining Poland, Canada, and Italy in taking formal legal or punitive action following the flotilla interception.