Gaza City, Gaza Strip — The World Central Kitchen (WCK) mourns the loss of seven aid workers killed in an Israeli military strike, highlighting the tragic incident which has sparked international condemnation.
Among the victims were a dual US-Canada national, a Palestinian, three Brits, an Australian, and a Pole, who were part of a WCK convoy struck by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
“These are the heroes of WCK,” said Erin Gore, CEO of the organization, in a statement honoring the aid workers. The IDF, acknowledging the incident, stated that it was a “grave mistake” and not intentional to harm the workers.
John Chapman, James Henderson, and James Kirby were the three British nationals who lost their lives in the strike. They had been dedicated members of WCK’s security team.
Adam McGuire, the cousin of James Kirby, expressed disappointment in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s response and hoped the tragic incident would lead to increased aid flowing into Gaza.
The family of John Chapman described him as a hero who died while trying to help others, with reports suggesting he was a former marine.
Polish authorities confirmed the death of Damian Sobol, a volunteer and member of WCK from southeast Poland, in the attack.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom, highlighting her previous humanitarian efforts and dedication to providing aid to those in need.
WCK, founded by chef José Andrés in 2010, has been a prominent provider of food aid in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas, distributing millions of meals and aiding in crises like the conflict in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza.
In the aftermath of the tragic incident, WCK has called for an independent investigation into the strikes that claimed the lives of their aid workers, urging governments to support their quest for justice.
As the organization temporarily halts its operations in Gaza, the impact of the loss of these dedicated aid workers reverberates through the humanitarian community, underscoring the risks faced by those who selflessly serve others in times of crisis.