The Congress of Arab American Organizations in Michigan holds protest in Dearborn against Israel

DEARBORN, Mich. (WXYZ) - More than 100 people lined the steps of City Hall in Dearborn to protest the use of Israeli force that ended with the death of nine people trying to bring aid to Gaza.

The protest was organized by The Congress of Arab American Organizations in Michigan (CAAO).

CAAO issued a statement condemning Israel's actions and calling on President Obama to lift the "illegal blockade" against Gaza.

The protest was held just a day after several people were killed on board ships carrying supplies to Gaza.

CAAO claims Israeli commandos attacked the ships and killed innocent civiliains.

"Israel officially claims it was acting in self-defense," said CAAO spokesman Osama Siblani. "The world's fourth largest nuclear power had to defend itself from eight unarmed ships with 750 peaceful civilians and humanitarian aid - food, water, medical, building and school supplies? This is blatant nonsense. "

"We call on President Barack Obama and all other heads of state to demand the accountability one would expect from a country which receives so much financial aid and support, especially from Western nations," he added.

CAAO represents the views of 47 local Arab American organizations and was formed in 2001.