Summary

An Israeli airstrike killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen humanitarian group in Gaza, drawing widespread international condemnation. Israel called it an unintended tragedy and launched an investigation, while aid groups suspended some operations in Gaza over safety concerns. The incident raised tensions between Israel and allies who have criticized the civilian toll of the conflict with no resolution in sight.

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In devastating news, an Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Monday killed seven aid workers from the humanitarian group World Central Kitchen, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.

The victims included citizens of Australia, Britain, Poland, the United States, Canada and Palestine. They were traveling in vehicles clearly marked with the World Central Kitchen logo when they were struck in the central Gaza city of Deir al-Balah.

World Central Kitchen, founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, said the workers had coordinated their movements with the Israeli military ahead of time, calling it a "targeted attack." The organization provides food aid in conflict zones and has recently begun distributing meals in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Israel was responsible, calling it a "tragic incident" and an "unintentional hit on innocent people." He said "it happens during war" but that Israel would do everything possible to prevent such incidents going forward.

The Israeli military launched an investigation into the killings and said it would improve coordination with aid groups. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant called the deaths "unacceptable" and said procedures would be put in place to protect humanitarian workers.

Reaction from around the world was swift in condemning the strike and demanding explanations from Israel.

The killings immediately drew furious condemnation across the globe. A "heartbroken" President Biden relayed his outrage to Chef Andres, vowing to make clear to Israel that aid workers must be protected.

At the United Nations, Secretary General Antonio Guterres called the strike "deeply distressing" and demanded an impartial investigation. The U.K., Australia, Poland and others demanded answers and changes from Israel to safeguard humanitarian workers.

Aid groups including the UN agency for Palestinian refugees suspended some operations in Gaza in the aftermath, citing security concerns. This raised fears of worsening the already dire humanitarian situation caused by the months of fighting in the densely populated territory.

While acknowledging the tragedy, Israeli officials insisted the strike was unintentional and that Israel makes extensive efforts to avoid civilian casualties. They said initial findings suggested Israeli forces identified a threat, without specifying what it was. Investigations of the incident are still underway.

In the midst of global outrage over Israel's deadly airstrike on aid workers in Gaza, tensions are escalating rapidly after Iran accused Israel of killing elite Iranian commanders in Damascus, vowing harsh retaliation as fears mount the attacks could spiral into broader regional conflict.

Our prayers go out to the families affected by this tragic event.

Blinken: US urging Israel to investigate airstrike that killed World Central Kitchen workers | Reuters

Israel Confronts Fallout After Strike That Killed Seven Gaza Aid Workers | WSJ

Middle East Crisis | NYT

Iran vows deadly suspected Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Damascus "will not go unanswered" | CBS News