Indonesians file complaint against Netanyahu over Gaza flotilla 'abuses'

Nine Indonesian citizens, among a group of global activists detained while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza in May, have lodged a formal complaint against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Their lawyer announced Wednesday that the complaint alleges crimes against humanity and seeks an investigation into what they describe as "abuses" during their interception and detention.

The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted by Israeli forces. More than 400 activists were detained, with some held for several days. The group has formally requested the Attorney General of the Republic of Indonesia to investigate Israel for offenses including piracy at sea and crimes against humanity.

According to their lawyer, Kafin Muhammad, Indonesia's criminal code grants its courts "universal jurisdiction" over crimes committed outside the country's borders. The complaint specifically names Netanyahu as Israel's commander-in-chief and includes testimonies from the volunteers detailing alleged mistreatment during their detention by Israeli authorities. These accounts include descriptions of activists being forced to kneel with their hands tied behind their backs, a situation captured in a video released by an Israeli minister that sparked international outcry.

While a spokesperson for the Attorney General's office did not respond to requests for comment, the incident has drawn attention from several countries. Nations including France, Italy, and Australia have already initiated judicial investigations into the actions taken against the flotilla. Israel maintains a strict blockade on Gaza, controlling all entry points since 2007.

“

We are asking the Attorney General of the Republic of Indonesia to conduct an investigation into crimes allegedly committed by Zionist Israel.