Turkey Slams Israel’s Flotilla Interception as ‘Act of Terror,’ Launches Probe

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office opened a probe into the incident on charges of deprivation of liberty, hijacking or detaining vessels, qualified robbery and property damage.

Tülay Gökçimen from the flotilla's Turkey delegation told CNN Türk that the number of Turks held by Israel has risen to 28.

Later, Turkish media reported that the number of Turkish citizens detained had risen to 30.

The Foreign Ministry is working on their release.

"This attack, which targeted civilians acting peacefully without resorting to violence, is proof that the fascist and militarist policies implemented by the genocidal Netanyahu government, which has condemned Gaza to famine, are not limited to Palestinians but target everyone who struggles against the oppression imposed by Israel," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

It noted coordination with other countries since the voyage began, with all steps taken for the immediate release of Turks and others detained.The ministry hoped the attack won't derail Gaza ceasefire efforts and vowed legal action against the perpetrators.

"We call on the UN and all relevant international organizations to take immediate action to lift the unlawful blockade on Gaza, allow humanitarian aid to enter the region, and ensure freedom of navigation," it added. 

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz slammed the assault: "Israel’s unlawful and barbaric attack on the Sumud Fleet in international waters is unacceptable. I condemn this assault on the collective conscience of humanity."

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş called it "a clear violation of international law and a crime."

Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said Israel's intervention will mark a "dark stain" in history.

The flotilla, with dozens of vessels carrying aid and activists, was intercepted in international waters, with Israeli forces boarding ships and detaining passengers, including climate activist Greta Thunberg.