Denounce Israel's attack on civilians

The world again awoke Monday to another humanitarian crime committed by Israel. This time it is a flotilla of European, Turkish and Algerian ships carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza. Israel has applied a stranglehold on Gaza preventing aid from coming in to Gaza to punish the democratically elected Hamas government.

The IDF commandos landed on the Turkish-owned ship 50 miles in international waters, under the cover of night. These were ships that had been approved and searched by Turkish authorities. This flotilla was carrying food, medical supplies and building materials. Supplies much needed for rebuilding Gaza after the barbaric attack by Israel in December 2008. As a result of the skirmish on board the ship, nine Turks were killed.

As expected, the Israeli prime minister stated that the troops were “attacked with clubs and fists.” It is interesting that the only method to control the passengers by one of the world's most sophisticated and ruthless military machines is to kill nine of them, and maim 30.

The U.N. Security Council should denounce and condemn this savage attack by Israel. The United States should not veto a resolution condemning Israel.

It is time for Israelis in Israel and U.S. supporters to demonstrate against Israel for its indiscriminate use of lethal force against civilians under the pretext of security measures. It is time for the United States and the world to divest from Israel.

Patrick W. Hitchon

Iowa City