Seven aid workers, including three British nationals, were tragically killed in an Israeli strike in Gaza. John Chapman, 57, James Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47, were among the victims, all part of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) team. The strike, which occurred on Monday, also claimed the lives of Lalzawmi Frankcom from Australia, Damian Sobol from Poland, Saif Abu Taha from Palestine, and Jacob Flickinger, a US-Canadian citizen.
The convoy, consisting of three vehicles prominently displaying the charity’s logo, was leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading food aid when it was hit. Erin Gore, CEO of WCK, expressed devastation over the loss, calling the victims’ lives “beautiful” and condemning the attack. José Andrés, the charity’s founder, referred to the victims as “angels” and urged Israel to halt what he described as “indiscriminate killing.”
In response to the incident, the UK summoned the Israeli ambassador for the first time in 12 years, demanding an investigation. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his appall at the deaths, emphasizing the need to protect humanitarian workers. Similarly, US President Joe Biden voiced outrage and sorrow, stating that Israel must do more to safeguard civilians.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Israeli forces’ involvement in the attack, calling it “tragic” and promising a thorough investigation. IDF Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi characterized the strike as a mistake due to misidentification during complex nighttime conditions. However, WCK disputed this, alleging a “targeted attack” by the IDF.
The deaths underscored concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers in conflict zones. Arrangements are being made to repatriate the victims’ bodies, while questions arise about the effectiveness of deconfliction measures to protect aid organizations operating in war zones.