Biden slams Israel over airstrike killing humanitarian workers in Gaza

US President Joe Biden has voiced strong condemnation following the Israeli airstrike in Gaza that resulted in the tragic deaths of seven humanitarian workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK), including nationals from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Poland.

Joe Biden.

Photo: PAP/EPA/TOM BRENNER/POOL

In a statement on Wednesday, Biden said he was "outraged and heartbroken" over the incident, criticizing Israel for failing to safeguard aid personnel.

"Israel had not done enough to protect aid workers trying to deliver desperately needed help to civilians," Biden remarked, urging for a swift and transparent investigation to ensure accountability. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has extended apologies for the fatalities, which have also prompted World Central Kitchen to halt its operations in the region.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, alongside leaders from Australia, Poland, and Canada, has echoed the call for a thorough independent investigation.

Source: BBC

According to reports, the Israeli military has committed to an independent probe into the attack, described by IDF chief of general staff Herzi Halevi as a "grave mistake" resulting from misidentification.

WCK, founded by chef José Andrés, has been a critical provider of aid to Gaza, serving millions of meals constituting over 60% of non-governmental aid in the region.

“These are the heroes of WCK. These 7 beautiful souls were killed by the IDF in a strike as they were returning from a full day's mission. Their smiles, laughter, and voices are forever embedded in our memories.” - Erin Gore, CEO. Read more: https://t.co/4f38RQ1l4I pic.twitter.com/neAsSzKVP5

— World Central Kitchen (@WCKitchen) April 2, 2024

 (jh)

Source: PAP, BBC