WCK Volunteer Killed in Israeli Attack in Gaza

Gaza (Quds News Network)- World Central Kitchen confirmed that one of its volunteers in Gaza was killed after an Israeli airstrike hit the area near one of its kitchens during meal distribution on Thursday.

“Our hearts are heavy today,” the organisation said, mourning the loss.

The attack also left six others wounded as Israel’s relentless bombardment continues to devastate humanitarian operations in the besieged territory.
“Jalal was tragically killed and six other people were injured,” WCK said.

“We will continue to support community kitchens throughout the region and operate our field kitchens where possible, based on daily assessments,” added the group, founded by celebrity chef José Andrés. “We hope for peace for all and a lasting ceasefire.”

Andrés reposted the message, adding, “The people of Gaza must have a future free of Israeli attacks against civilians, humanitarians, children……just as the people of Israel deserve to live without fear of terror and attacks by Hamas…. Enough…Let’s build peace….lets free the hostages ,let’s restart a ceasefire and let free flow of the humanitarian aid again… and start hoping of a better tomorrow.”

This week’s strike came less than a year after an Israeli strike killed seven of WCK’s volunteers on April 1, 2024.

About a week ago, the UN confirmed that one of their international aid workers was killed by an “explosive ordnance” at the UN guesthouse in central Gaza, and five others were injured. The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza blamed the attack on the Israeli military, which the military denied, claiming it had not conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of the guesthouse. However, a CNN investigation revealed Israel’s involvement in the attack, confirming that weapon fragments found at the scene match the M339, an Israeli tank projectile.

The situation for humanitarian workers in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Farhan Haq, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, confirmed that at least 280 UN employees have been killed in Gaza since Israel’s genocide started on October 7, 2023.

Since March 18, Israel has intensified airstrikes across Gaza, killing and injuring hundreds. Despite a ceasefire agreement brokered in January, Israeli forces have resumed attacks, further deepening the suffering of civilians.