Markey, Warren, Merkley, Van Hollen Press Rubio to Protect Gaza Flotilla Carrying U.S. Citizens

Letter Text (PDF)

Boston (September 25, 2025) - Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to intervene with the Netanyahu government to protect the safety of the civilian members of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a group of vessels carrying aid to Gaza, which is facing attacks.

In the letter the lawmakers write, "The Global Sumud Flotilla is currently sailing across the Mediterranean Sea to bring vital humanitarian aid to Gaza, but has reportedly faced attacks by drones and other hostile actions. U.S. citizens, including residents of Maryland, Massachusetts, and Oregon, are aboard these ships. Under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, they warrant protection."

The lawmakers continue, "You have a critical role to play in ensuring that U.S. foreign policy protects our citizens and promotes international law and humanitarian relief. We urge you to demand that the Netanyahu government refrains from any use of force against peaceful civilian vessels and ensures that humanitarian aid is surged into Gaza so that the desperate conditions that continue to prompt these flotillas no longer persist.

The lawmakers conclude, "Please let us know what steps you have taken or will take to safeguard peaceful civilian members of the Global Sumud Flotilla."

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