France, May 29 -- "Based on a report I requested from our Consul General in Turkey, who informed me of sexual violence, exposure to the cold, beatings, and repeated humiliation of French nationals, all of these acts are likely to constitute criminal offenses (and) I decided yesterday to refer the matter to the public prosecutor," Barrot told France Inter radio.

Organisers of a flotilla that was detained last week during an attempt to bring aid to Gaza said activists were subjected to abuse, with several hospitalized with injuries and at least 15 reporting sexual assaults including rape. The activists have since been released.

France bars Israeli minister over 'brutalised' Gaza flotilla activists

The lawyers for the French flotilla acti...