In a devastating turn of events, World Central Kitchen (WCK), a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering food to those in need, has recently lost seven of its employees who were killed by Israeli airstrikes while on their way back from a mission in Gaza. The tragedy occurred when the group was leaving a warehouse in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza.
The victims included Saifeddin Issam Aydan Abutaha, Lalzawami Frankcom, Damian Soból, Jacob Flickinger, John Chapman, James Henderson, and James Kirby. Abutaha, Frankcom, Soból, and Flickinger were part of the WCK relief team, while Chapman, Henderson, and Kirby were part of the WCK security team.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret over the incident and called it an “unintended strike.” However, WCK founder José Andrés demanded that the Israeli government stop its indiscriminate killing and prevent any more innocent lives from being lost. The organization had recently sent food shipments to Gaza with over 100 tons of food delivered shortly before the incident.
The employees who lost their lives had traveled the world to participate in relief efforts following wars and natural disasters. On March 12th, a ship carrying 200 tons of food departed for Gaza with plans for more food shipments to come. Their deaths have been mourned by their friends and families as well as the wider humanitarian community.
The loss of these brave individuals is a tragedy that cannot be ignored. They put their lives on the line to help others in need and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are protected from harm. We must demand accountability from those responsible for this incident and work towards finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
As we remember these heroes who gave their lives for humanity’s cause let us continue to support organizations like World Central Kitchen that work tirelessly to provide aid where it’s needed most. Their dedication and bravery should inspire us all to take action towards creating a better world for all people.
