Universal Jurisdiction Mapping of Cases in France
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Israel

Gaza Flotilla

Type of liability
Personne physique

Alleged perpetrator(s)
X

Legal classification of crime(s)
Torture
War crimes

Source of the complaint
Article 40 CCP

Ongoing proceedings
oui

Regime
2 - 689-1 CPP

Summary of facts

In April and May 2026, 430 activists from various countries, including 37 French nationals, organized a flotilla to deliver humanitarian aid and break the humanitarian blockade of Gaza. The Israeli armed forces reportedly intercepted their boats, and several stated that they had been detained and had allegedly suffered physical and psychological violence during their detention. A video shows Itamar Ben Gvir, Israeli Minister of National Security, mocking the kneeling activists, which prompted a reaction from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Amnesty International France recalls that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law.

Legal proceedings

<p>June 5, 2026: The PNAT (National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office) opens an investigation for “acts of torture” and “war crimes” following a report made by the French Minister of Foreign Affairs pursuant to Article 40 of the French Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP). Thirteen participants in the flotilla, including Noé Tissot, also filed complaints for torture and/or sexual violence.</p>

Complaint

non

Legal basis for jurisdiction (article)

689-2 CCP

Court of Assizes judgment

n/a

Court of Appeal ruling

n/a

Court of Cassation ruling

n/a

Sources

Le Parisien, "« Flottille pour Gaza »: une élue communiste et un journaliste déposent plainte à Paris", 2026

JusticeInfo.Net, "Un mois après, l'enquête pour tortures sur des participants à la « Flottille pour Gaza » avance en France", 2026

Le Monde, "Flottille pour Gaza : une enquête pour « tortures » et « crime de guerre » ouverte par le PNAT après l’arrestation de membres français par Israël", 2026

France 24, "Flottille pour Gaza : une enquête ouverte à Paris pour "tortures" et "crime de guerre"", 2026