I write in anger and heartbreak over a grave injustice that’s being met with silence.
On July 26, seven American citizens were detained by Israeli forces while peacefully delivering diapers, medicine and life-saving supplies aboard the Handala aid ship to Gaza. This happened in international waters, where no country has the right to seize civilians without cause.
These are not criminals or terrorists. They are humanitarians risking their safety for innocent families trapped in crisis.
Yet, the U.S. government, especially former President Trump and his administration, has been shockingly silent — no statements, no outrage, no demands for release.
Had these Americans been detained by another country, we’d hear calls for immediate action. But because of political alliances, these brave people are being abandoned.
This is a betrayal of what America stands for: protecting its people and defending human rights, no matter politics.
I urge readers to contact their representatives and demand public condemnation and swift release of these Americans. Our voices matter — let’s not let our fellow citizens be forgotten.
This isn’t just politics. It’s about humanity.
Ava Martinez, Salt Lake City
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