JERUSALEM, July 4 (UPI) -- The Israeli government Sunday said it granted additional authority to the panel investigating the May confrontation at sea with a Gaza aid flotilla.
The prime minister's office announced the Turkel Commission would be able to subpoena witnesses and receive sworn testimony as it looks into potential violations of international law.
Haaretz said the authority did not extend to members of the armed forces, which has a separate investigation under way.
The investigations were ordered after nine pro-Palestinan activists were killed May 31 when Israeli commandos boarded a Turkish ship sailing for Gaza with humanitarian aid in defiance of Israel's naval blockade.
Ynetnews said the commission would, however, be able to request military documents and consult with the military investigation team.
