EU officials say Israeli killing of aid workers in Gaza 'appalling'

By Muhammed Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Israeli killing of seven members of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) in Gaza is "appalling," EU officials said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrel and European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic issued a joint statement condemning the Monday attack. The NGO said its convoy was hit as it was leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse, where the team had unloaded more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza.

"We urge a swift implementation of the announced commitment by the Israeli authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure accountability for those who are responsible," the officials said.

The statement reminded of the Israeli obligation under International Humanitarian Law to protect humanitarian workers at all times.

"We urge Israel to fulfil the obligation to allow a full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need," the officials said. They also praised the UN and other humanitarian groups for their vital efforts amid dire conditions in Gaza.

Referring to the recent UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, the statement emphasized the International Court of Justice's binding provisional measures, urging swift and complete compliance from all parties involved.

Israel has killed more than 32,000 Palestinians since the start of its offensive following the Oct. 7, 2023 cross-border incursion by Palestinian group Hamas.

Besides the casualties, it has imposed a crippling blockade on the Gaza Strip, leaving its population, particularly residents of northern Gaza, on the verge of starvation.