New York, USA – The World Central Kitchen (WCK) has identified the seven aid workers who tragically lost their lives in an Israeli military strike in Gaza. The organization mourned the loss of these individuals, highlighting their dedication and selflessness as international outrage continues to mount over the incident.
Among those killed were a dual US-Canada national, a Palestinian volunteer, three British nationals, an Australian, and a Pole. These aid workers were part of a WCK convoy that was struck by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) while returning from a humanitarian mission in Gaza.
CEO of WCK, Erin Gore, described the victims as heroes and expressed the organization’s deep sorrow over their untimely deaths. The IDF acknowledged the incident, calling it a “grave mistake” and emphasizing that harm to aid workers was never the intention.
The British victims, identified as John Chapman, James Henderson, and James Kirby, were all members of WCK’s security team. Kirby, a military veteran with experience in Afghanistan and Bosnia, was remembered by his family as a courageous individual who dedicated his life to helping others.
Adam McGuire, Kirby’s cousin, criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not apologizing for the tragedy and called for increased aid delivery to Gaza in honor of the workers’ memory. The families of the other victims also paid tribute to their loved ones, highlighting their commitment to humanitarian efforts.
The WCK, founded by chef José Andrés in 2010, has been providing food aid in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas globally. The organization’s rapid response and efficient aid distribution have made it a leading provider of food relief worldwide.
In the aftermath of the strike, WCK has called for an independent investigation into the incident and urged the governments of Australia, Canada, the US, Poland, and the UK to support their demand. The organization has emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in understanding the circumstances that led to the tragic deaths of their aid workers.
As the world mourns the loss of these dedicated individuals, WCK remains committed to its mission of providing food aid to those in need, despite the challenges and risks faced in conflict zones like Gaza. The impact of this devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in their noble pursuit of helping others in crisis.