A recent report from the Aid Worker Security Database (AWSD) revealed that Israel has killed more aid workers in the Gaza Strip than the total number of such deaths in the rest of the world combined over the last three decades.
In the wake of a comprehensive assault launched by the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, at least 203 aid workers have lost their lives in Israeli attacks since October 7 of the previous year, as outlined in the report.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as “unconscionable,” echoing concerns surrounding the impediments faced by UN aid workers in carrying out their duties in Gaza, particularly in its northern region.
World Central Kitchen (WCK), a US-based food charity, confirmed that seven of its humanitarian workers were among those killed in an Israeli strike in the Gaza Strip the previous Monday. The victims hailed from Australia, Poland, the UK, Palestine, and were also dual citizens of the US and Canada.
Following this tragic incident, the UN has decided to halt nighttime movements for its staff for a minimum of 48 hours.
Various countries have strongly condemned the attack and demanded a thorough investigation. German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sebastian Fischer emphasized the need for Israel to enhance the protection of civilians, especially humanitarian workers.
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted the urgency of a swift and comprehensive investigation into the matter.
Canada, through its Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, denounced the strike on the WCK employees and urged Israel to undertake a full inquiry on the matter. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the necessity of holding Israel accountable for the deaths of the humanitarian workers.
The US, along with Poland and the UK, also expressed sorrow over the incident and urged Israel to promptly initiate an investigation. The demand for compliance with international humanitarian law was stressed, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding aid workers who play a critical role in delivering much-needed assistance.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski reached out to the Israeli ambassador for explanations, invoking a recent UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access to Gaza.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized that Israel has the capacity to act in accordance with international humanitarian law and reiterated the importance of upholding these standards.
