A British humanitarian worker was one of seven volunteers killed in an Israeli bombardment in central Gaza, according to the American disaster relief nonprofit with which they were involved.
The nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK) reported that the devastating toll of the recent incident included people from different nationalities, such as Australia, Poland, Palestine, and a dual citizen of the US and Canada.
Volunteers were leaving a facility in central Gaza in two armoured vehicles tagged with the charity’s symbol after delivering 100 tonnes of humanitarian food supply.
Despite prior coordination with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the airstrike occurred, leading to the tragic loss of the team.
Israel has announced an “in-depth examination” of the incident, with an independent body tasked to investigate, stated IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari.
Graphic footage online captured the aftermath, with five bodies shown at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, including individuals with British, Australian, and Polish passports.
The heartbreaking scene witnessed tearful mourners, some adorned in WCK attire, bidding farewell to the volunteers as they were placed into body bags. Erin Gore, the CEO of WCK, expressed profound grief, announcing the suspension of all relief operations in Gaza.
Here's the vehicle of the World Central Kitchen's four international team members who were killed by an Israeli airstrike targeting them last night in central Gaza. pic.twitter.com/2RwutNdxdY
— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) April 2, 2024
She condemned the attack, labelling it an assault not just on WCK but on all humanitarian organizations striving to alleviate suffering in conflict zones.
Renowned chef José Andrés, the founder of WCK, mourned the loss of the volunteers, emphasizing their invaluable contributions to relief efforts across various regions. He called upon the Israeli government to halt indiscriminate killings.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed shock and sorrow over the death of the British aid worker, underscoring the need for a thorough investigation.
Further details emerged, with Australian authorities identifying one of the victims as WCK manager Lalzawmi’ Zomi’ Frankcom, 44, from Melbourne.
Australian officials summoned the Israeli ambassador to demand accountability for the tragedy.
Hani Aburezeq, a Gaza-based journalist, remembered Frankcom fondly for her unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes.
Similarly, tributes were poured in for Damian Soból, the Polish national among the casualties, who was described as a ‘hero’ on his Instagram page.
The Polish Foreign Affairs Ministry denounced the disregard for international humanitarian law and called for protecting civilians, including humanitarian workers.
Wojciech Bakun, the president of Przemyśl, praised Soból as an outstanding individual.
Additionally, it was reported that Saif Issam Abu Taha, who was driving the van and worked as a translator, also perished in the airstrike.
Video footage circulated by the Sawa News Agency depicted the attack’s aftermath, revealing extensive damage to the van. The incident has sparked international outrage and calls for justice as the community mourns the loss of these dedicated humanitarian workers.
