Australian Federal Police opens inquiry into allegations Israeli forces assaulted flotilla activists
The Australian Federal Police has opened an inquiry into allegations that Israeli forces physically assaulted Australian activists aboard a Gaza aid flotilla last month. The investigation will draw on video footage and medical reports submitted by legal organisations. The decision strengthens calls within the Australian government to review security cooperation with Israel.
The Australian Federal Police said on Monday it had formally opened an inquiry into allegations that Israeli forces used physical violence against Australian activists when a civilian aid flotilla bound for Gaza was intercepted in international waters in May 2026. An AFP spokesperson said the investigation would remain confidential but that statements had been taken from Australian victims.
The case file includes about 40 minutes of video, written statements from 12 Australian activists and the medical reports relating to them. The Social Justice Foundation, which organised the flotilla, called the AFP's decision "a critical step in upholding international law".
Israel's Foreign Ministry maintains that its soldiers followed "standard procedure" and that the flotilla was illegally trying to breach the blockade. A toughening of Australia's diplomatic notes to Israel is expected; Foreign Minister Penny Wong has summoned the Israeli Ambassador.
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