GAZA: International outcry erupted this week as seven humanitarian workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK) were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. The victims included nationals from Australia, the UK, Poland, and a dual US-Canadian citizen.
The strike, which occurred as the aid workers were delivering food, has drawn fierce condemnation from the United Nations, human rights organizations, and global leaders.
UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese stated:
“Israel’s targeting of international humanitarian workers is a blatant violation of international law. This massacre must be independently investigated.”
Human Rights Watch echoed the sentiment, calling the killings part of a broader pattern of Israeli attacks on humanitarian operations in Gaza.
“This isn’t an isolated case. It reflects a systemic disregard for civilian and humanitarian protection,” said HRW’s Gaza researcher.
World Central Kitchen’s founder José Andrés confirmed that the victims were clearly marked, traveling in vehicles with WCK logos, and had coordinated their movements with the Israeli military.
“This was not just a mistake. These were heroes bringing food to starving people,” Andrés said in a tearful video.
Following international pressure, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched an internal investigation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the airstrike but called it a “tragic accident.” Critics argue that such apologies are no substitute for accountability.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whose citizen Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom was among the dead, demanded full transparency and justice.
“Australia expects a thorough investigation. We want those responsible held to account.”
Since the war began in October 2023, aid operations in Gaza have faced repeated disruptions. More than 200 humanitarian workers have reportedly been killed. The situation has raised alarm among NGOs and UN agencies about the increasing danger of operating in conflict zones.
Save the Children called for an immediate ceasefire and access for aid agencies.
“No one delivering food should fear for their life,” said CEO Inger Ashing.
The UN has urged the International Criminal Court to include the incident in its ongoing probe into potential war crimes in Gaza. Legal experts say targeting humanitarian aid workers could constitute a serious violation of the Geneva Conventions.
As Israel’s military operations continue, human rights defenders warn that unchecked violence against aid workers not only threatens lives but also deepens Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe.
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