World Central Kitchen Founder Accuses Israeli Army of Targeting Aid Workers
Days after seven foreign aid workers were killed by the Israeli army in Gaza, World Central Kitchen (WCK) founder Jose Andres alleged that the country targeted his aid workers systematically.
Allegations by Jose Andres
- Jose Andres claimed that the Israeli army was aware of the aid workers’ movements before carrying out the strike.
- He stated that the strike on the aid workers was not a mistake and that Israeli forces were informed about the convoy.
Details of the Incident
During the air strike, aid workers from Australia, Canada, Poland, the UK, and the US, along with a Palestinian colleague, lost their lives. Israel later called the strike a “grave mistake” and issued an apology, promising an independent investigation.
According to Jose Andres, the aid convoy was targeted by Israel as they were leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza via the maritime route.
Charity’s Logo Clearly Displayed
Andres emphasized that the convoy had clear markings, including the charity’s logo displayed on two armored vehicles. He stated that it was not a case of mistaken identity, as the convoy was easily identifiable.
He further alleged that the Israeli army targeted the convoy in an area controlled by IDF, despite knowing the identity of the aid workers and their vehicles.
Sequence of Events
Jose Andres recounted the incident, mentioning that the team was returning from delivering food to a warehouse when they were targeted. The aid workers tried to communicate with the Israeli Defense Forces during the attack, seeking clarification on why they were being targeted.
Andres claimed that the aid workers were attacked systematically, with multiple strikes likely carried out by drones. Despite the attacks, some members of the convoy managed to escape safely.
