Tragic Loss of Aid Workers in Gaza: Calls for Investigation and Humanitarian Protection

World Central Kitchen reported the tragic loss of seven of its aid workers in Gaza during an Israeli Defense Forces assault, prompting the organization to announce a temporary halt to its operations in the area.

CEO Erin Gore expressed outrage, stating, “This is not merely an assault on WCK, but an affront to humanitarian efforts in the most desperate of circumstances, where food is being weaponized.” She added, “Such actions are reprehensible.”

Among the casualties were aid workers from Australia, Poland, Britain, and Palestine, according to WCK. Additionally, one worker held dual American-Canadian citizenship, the organization confirmed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the tragic incident for the first time as he departed a hospital following successful hernia surgery.

“Regrettably, there was a tragic incident yesterday where our forces inadvertently harmed innocent individuals in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu stated. “Such occurrences can happen in the midst of conflict, and we are thoroughly investigating it. We are in communication with relevant governments, and we are committed to taking all necessary measures to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.”

WCK, a non-governmental organization, has been operational in Gaza for several months, providing over 33 million meals since the conflict began. With the assistance of approximately 400 Palestinians on the ground, WCK manages more than 60 community kitchens.

Adrienne Watson, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, expressed deep concern over the strike, stating, “We are heartbroken and deeply troubled. Humanitarian aid workers must be safeguarded as they deliver essential assistance, and we urge Israel to promptly investigate this incident.”

A WCK representative commented that they were still gathering information on the tragic event that occurred early Tuesday morning. “This is a heartbreaking tragedy. Humanitarian aid workers and civilians should never be targeted under any circumstances,” the representative emphasized.

The IDF announced it was conducting a thorough review of the incident and reiterated its commitment to facilitating the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stressed the importance of a comprehensive investigation and highlighted Israel’s collaboration with international aid organizations.

In Paris, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the missile strike on the WCK team, stating, “We’ve directly engaged with the Israeli government regarding this incident, urging a swift, impartial investigation.” Blinken mourned the victims and praised their courageous humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the need to protect aid workers who “run into the fire” to provide essential services.

David Cameron, the U.K.’s foreign secretary, stated that officials in the United Kingdom were urgently seeking to confirm whether British citizens were among the casualties.

“We have urged Israel to conduct an immediate investigation and provide a comprehensive, transparent account of the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident,” Cameron said in a statement.

Jose Andres, the chef and founder of WCK, expressed profound sorrow for the families and friends of the slain WCK workers.

“Today, @WCKitchen mourns the loss of several of our colleagues in an IDF airstrike in Gaza,” he shared on social media. “I am devastated for their loved ones and our entire WCK community. These individuals… angels… I’ve worked alongside in various locations worldwide. They are not anonymous… they are not forgotten.”

Andres called for an end to indiscriminate violence and emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid. “The Israeli government must cease this indiscriminate violence, halt restrictions on humanitarian assistance, and refrain from targeting civilians and aid workers,” he urged. “Enough innocent lives have been lost. Peace begins with recognizing our shared humanity. It must commence immediately.”

IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari conveyed his condolences to Jose Andres and announced the launch of an investigation into the incident.

“We extend our deepest sympathies and will conduct a thorough inquiry to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Hagari assured. “Our findings will be shared transparently as we endeavor to address this situation comprehensively.”