After an Israeli strike kills seven workers, the World Central Kitchen charity suspends operations in Gaza.

An unintended airstrike conducted by Israel resulted in the tragic death of seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen. As a consequence, the charity has been compelled to halt the delivery of crucial food aid to Gaza. This unfortunate incident has exacerbated the dire situation in the region, pushing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to the brink of starvation.

Reports from Cyprus indicate that ships carrying approximately 240 tons of aid, which had arrived just a day prior, have been forced to turn back from Gaza. Israel has only allowed a minimal amount of aid to enter the devastated northern Gaza area, despite experts warning of an imminent famine. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged the unintentional nature of the strike, expressing his condolences for the loss of innocent lives. He has assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Footage from the incident revealed individuals wearing protective gear adorned with the charity’s logo at a hospital in the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah. Hospital records confirm that among those killed were three British citizens, an Australian, a Polish national, an American-Canadian dual citizen, and a Palestinian. Additional footage captured after the strike displayed a vehicle with the charity’s logo prominently displayed on its roof, making it easily identifiable from the air.

The projectile had pierced through the roof, causing significant damage. In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza, several countries attempted to establish a sea route to facilitate the entry of more aid. However, the efforts of the United States and other nations, while commendable, have proven insufficient according to humanitarian workers. World Central Kitchen, founded by renowned chef José Andrés, played a crucial role in establishing this new route. The ban imposed by Israel on UNRWA, the primary U.N. agency in Gaza, from delivering aid to the north, coupled with the military’s failure to grant permission or ensure safe passage for aid convoys, has made it exceedingly challenging for other humanitarian organizations to provide assistance. Andrés, whose charity operates in various countries affected by crises, has been instrumental in addressing the pressing needs of the people in Gaza.