Ankara,(Parliament Times):Turkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him the “Hitler of our times” in a sharp response to remarks made by Israeli leaders amid rising tensions between the two countries.
The diplomatic clash follows Ankara’s move to file charges against Israel’s political and military leadership over the interception of the 2025 “Sumud” Gaza flotilla. Turkish prosecutors are seeking severe penalties, including aggravated life sentences and prison terms ranging from over 1,100 years to 4,596 years for each accused.
In its statement, the Turkish foreign ministry accused Netanyahu of attempting to derail ongoing peace efforts and pursuing expansionist policies. It also referenced the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court in November 2024 against Netanyahu on allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Ankara further said that criticism from Israeli officials targeting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was driven by discomfort with Turkiye’s stance on regional issues.
The indictment, prepared by prosecutors in Istanbul, names 35 suspects, including Netanyahu, over the alleged armed interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Charges include crimes against humanity, genocide, unlawful detention, torture, and looting.
According to Turkish authorities, Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters in September 2025, boarded the vessels, and detained activists before transferring them to Israel. The case is being pursued under international maritime law and Turkish legal provisions.
Among those detained were prominent figures such as climate activist Greta Thunberg, European Parliament member Rima Hassan, and journalist Oman Faiad.
In response, Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions, stating that his government would continue confronting Iran and its allies. He also accused President Erdogan of supporting hostile groups and mistreating Kurdish citizens.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also criticized Erdogan, calling him a “paper tiger” and dismissing the Turkish legal action as politically motivated.
The escalating rhetoric underscores deepening tensions between the two countries, particularly over Gaza and broader regional conflicts.