LANSING - Following the interception by the Israeli navy of the Handala flotilla, which had on board Huwaida Arraf, who is a member of Michigan Democratic State Central Committee, MDP Chair Curtis Hertel released the following statement:

“We urge the Israeli navy to provide safety for those onboard the flotilla, and for the humanitarian aid they are carrying to be allowed into Gaza. Israelis and Palestinians deserve a peaceful future, and it is well past time for a lasting peace to end the war, return the hostages home, and deliver relief to the people of Gaza.”