Trial Against Israeli Military Officers in 2010 Gaza Aid Ship Raid Begins

On Tuesday, a trial began in Turkey against four Israeli military officers accused of commanding a failed raid against Gaza-bound aid ship, Mavi Marmara, which resulted in nine casualties.

According to CNN, there was no legal representation for the commanders, who are being tried in absentia.

Hundreds of activists rallied outside of the courtroom in Istanbul as lawyers and observers poured inside.

Turkish prosecutors are accusing the now retired Israeli senior military officers with charges that include instigating murder with cruelty, and instigating torture. In their testimony, several plaintiffs described mistreatment after the May 2010 raid. They also said Israeli troops used excessive force against unarmed civilians, again reports CNN.

Among the attendees at the trial was the Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH), owners of the Mavi Marmara played a vital role in the failed 2010 aid fleet to Gaza.