1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to take immediate action to ensure safe passage for the Handala, a humanitarian vessel carrying aid and international observers to the Gaza Strip. As you may be aware, the Handala set sail on its journey to Gaza on July 13, 2025, as part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's efforts to break the blockade that has been suffocating the people of Gaza for far too long. On board the Handala are 19 crew members and 2 journalists from various countries, who have come together to deliver humanitarian aid and to shed light on the situation in Gaza. As a representative of the United States, I implore you to take a strong stance in support of this peaceful and humanitarian endeavor. The blockade of Gaza has had a devastating impact on the lives of millions of Palestinians, including US citizens and other international humanitarian workers. The Handala's mission is to deliver much-needed aid and to demonstrate the international community's commitment to protecting human rights and dignity. As a US representative, I urge you to take the following actions: * To use your diplomatic influence to ensure that the Handala and its crew are able to safely reach the Gaza Strip without facing obstruction or violence. * To work with your colleagues to pressure the Israeli government to lift the blockade of Gaza and allow for the free flow of humanitarian aid and people. * To protect the safety and well-being of US citizens and other international humanitarian workers who are on board the Handala and who are working to deliver aid to the people of Gaza. The Handala is carrying vital humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and equipment, food and nutritional assistance, children's aid such as prosthetics and baby formula, and other essential goods and services to support the most vulnerable populations in Gaza. I request that you take immediate action to support the Handala's mission and to ensure the safety of its crew and passengers.