The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed a response from U.S. Representative Glenn Ivey (MD-04) regarding efforts to secure the release of Dr. John Reuwer, a Prince George’s County resident reportedly kidnapped after Israeli forces intercepted a humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza.
In response to messages from community members, CAIR urged Rep. Ivey to take swift action following reports that Dr. Reuwer was among approximately 175 activists kidnapped by Israeli forces during the seizure of civilian vessels participating in an international humanitarian mission.
In a statement to CAIR, Rep. Ivey’s office said:
“Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding Dr. John Reuwer, a constituent who was traveling aboard one of the vessels in the flotilla seized earlier this week. Congressman Ivey’s office is closely monitoring Dr. Reuwer’s situation, remains in contact with his family, and is working with the appropriate authorities to secure his release and ensure his safe return home.”
CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry said:
“We welcome Congressman Ivey’s engagement and support for Dr. Reuwer’s immediate and safe release. The kidnapping of civilians participating in a humanitarian mission amid dire conditions imposed by Israel in Gaza raises serious legal and human rights concerns. We urge all members of Congress to use every available diplomatic and legislative tool to ensure the safe return of all detained flotilla participants, and to end the illegal siege and blockade of Gaza.”
CAIR reiterated its call for transparency regarding the status and treatment of those kidnapped, and urged federal officials to prioritize their protection.
The organization reaffirmed its support for humanitarian efforts aimed at delivering aid to civilians in Gaza and called on policymakers to uphold international law and human rights protections.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com