World Central Kitchen founder José Andrés says Israeli forces in Gaza targeted his aid workers “one by one” in their vehicles. Seven workers, including those from Australia, Canada, Poland, the UK, and the US, as well as a Palestinian colleague, were killed in an air strike.
The convoy, marked with the charity’s logo, was hit as it left a warehouse in Deir al-Balah after unloading humanitarian aid. José Andrés insists this was not a mistake but a deliberate attack, despite Israel’s apology and promise of an independent investigation.
Following the incident, World Central Kitchen suspended its operations, and the UN paused nighttime movements for security evaluation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the strike as unintentional, blaming it on misidentification. However, US President Joe Biden criticized Israel for not adequately protecting aid workers.
Among the killed were three British nationals, with the UK demanding a transparent investigation. Other countries, including Australia, Poland, and Canada, also demanded accountability. World Central Kitchen had been a major provider of aid in Gaza, distributing millions of meals.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by aid workers in Gaza, with over 196 killed since October. The region has been heavily affected by Israeli military operations following attacks by Hamas gunmen.