World Central Kitchen ends its operations in Gaza

An Israeli airstrike killed seven aid workers with World Central Kitchen in Gaza, prompting the charity to suspend food aid deliveries in the region. The charity, founded by chef José Andrés, had been vital in providing aid to northern Gaza, where the population is on the brink of starvation. The Israeli military expressed sorrow over the deaths but did not accept responsibility. The charity team was traveling in a convoy coordinated with the Israeli army when the attack occurred.

UNRWA reported that 173 of its workers have been killed in Gaza since the conflict began. Several countries had been working to open a sea route for aid delivery to Gaza, as land routes controlled by Israel had been limited. The United States had also airdropped aid, but humanitarian workers say more assistance is needed. Israel had prevented UNRWA from delivering aid to the north, and other aid groups found sending convoys too dangerous due to military presence.

Three aid ships from Cyprus had arrived with supplies organized by World Central Kitchen and the UAE. Following the attack, the charity suspended operations and the remaining aid was transported back to Cyprus. The US had provided support for the sea route and plans to build its own floating dock, with construction expected to take a few weeks. The US urged Israel to investigate the airstrike, expressing deep concern over the incident.

The aid workers killed in the airstrike included nationals from Britain, Australia, Poland, and the US-Canada. The Australian Prime Minister requested an explanation from Israel, calling the incident unacceptable. Foreign leaders from Britain and Poland also called for an investigation and sent condolences to the families of the victims. The death toll in Gaza continued to rise as Israeli strikes killed more Palestinians, including children, in separate incidents on the same day.

Aid groups have been advocating for a humanitarian ceasefire to reach those in need, as talks between Israel and Hamas have remained stalled. Hostages held by Hamas are a key point of contention in the negotiations. The indirect talks between the two sides have been ongoing for months, with no breakthrough yet. As the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the need for humanitarian assistance and a resolution to the violence remains urgent.