An Israeli military strike has tragically claimed the lives of six international aid workers and a Palestinian driver, prompting shock and condemnation worldwide. The targeted attack, confirmed by the United States-based humanitarian organisation, World Central Kitchen, occurred as their team was engaged in delivering vital food supplies to Gaza. Among the killed were individuals from diverse nationalities, including Palestine, Australia, Poland, the United Kingdom, and a dual US-Canada citizen.

Footage depicting the aftermath of the assault showed the bodies of the victims being transported to a hospital in Deir el-Balah, where they were identified, in protective gear and bearing the WCK logo. The incident has dealt a severe blow to humanitarian efforts in Gaza, an already dire situation where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians face the looming threat of famine due to Israeli military actions.

Despite having coordinated their movements with the Israeli army, World Central Kitchen’s convoy fell victim to the strike as it departed from a warehouse in Deir al-Balah, having unloaded over 100 tons of crucial humanitarian aid brought via maritime routes. World Central Kitchen swiftly announced the suspension of its operations in the region, highlighting the immediate repercussions of the attack on ongoing relief efforts. The CEO of the organisation, Erin Gore, unequivocally condemned the assault as a shocking act against humanitarian entities striving to alleviate suffering in conflict zones, emphasising the urgent need for accountability and justice.