Israel has acknowledged that its forces unintentionally killed seven individuals from the World Central Kitchen charity in Gaza while they were traveling in a convoy marked with the charity’s logo that had coordinated its movements with the Israeli military.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences for the tragic incident and promised an independent inquiry into the matter. He stated that such events can occur in the midst of war and assured that thorough measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents from happening again.
The victims of the attack included citizens from Australia, the United Kingdom, Poland, Palestinians, and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. The convoy, which was transporting humanitarian food aid to Gaza, was targeted as it left a warehouse in Deir el-Balah.
WCK, founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, confirmed that the convoy was traveling in armored vehicles when it was hit. The Israeli military is conducting a comprehensive review of the incident at the highest levels and has promised an investigation by an independent, professional body.
In response to the attack, the International Court of Justice issued new measures ordering Israel to ensure the delivery of basic food supplies to prevent famine in Gaza. Various countries, including the UK and the US, have condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israel to conduct a swift and impartial investigation, emphasizing the need to protect aid workers and innocent civilians in conflict zones. Despite the recent approval of a weapons package for Israel, some US politicians have called for a halt to military aid used for indiscriminate attacks on civilians.