Following an Israeli airstrike that claimed the lives of seven aid workers from the U.S.-based charity organization, World Central Kitchen (WCK), in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, on April 1, 2024, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed ‘deep regret’ over the incident.
The airstrike that killed aid workers
World Central Kitchen, led by celebrity chef José Andrés, has been instrumental in providing food aid to the Gaza Strip, where a significant portion of the population faces the threat of famine. The organization had recently coordinated efforts to deliver vital food supplies through a newly established sea route.
The strike occurred as the aid workers were leaving a warehouse in Deir al-Balah after unloading more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid. Despite coordinating their movements with the Israeli army, the convoy was hit, resulting in a tragic loss.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the strike, describing it as an “unintended strike on innocent people in the Gaza Strip.” He has assured the public that Israeli officials are investigating the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the top military spokesman, stated that an independent investigation would be launched to reduce the risk of such events.
The fallout
The United Nations, along with various countries, has expressed deep concern over the attack and its implications for humanitarian efforts in the region.
In response to the tragedy, World Central Kitchen has announced a temporary suspension of its operations in Gaza. This decision raised concerns about the potential collapse of the recently opened sea route, which offered hope for the affected people in the Gaza Strip.