UK, Canada, Australia Criticize Israel for Ending Probe into 2024 Gaza Aid Worker Deaths

Britain, Canada, and Australia have jointly condemned Israel’s recent decision to close its investigation into the fatal drone strike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza in 2024.

The victims were employees of the World Central Kitchen and included three British nationals, a dual US-Canadian citizen, a Pole, an Australian, and a Palestinian. They were targeted while overseeing food aid deliveries when their vehicle convoy was struck.

Israel’s military described the incident as a "tragic mistake" but concluded after a preliminary inquiry that there was no reasonable suspicion of criminal misconduct. The decision to end the probe was made by Israel's independent military prosecution authorities based on legal considerations.

In a joint statement, the three countries expressed deep disappointment, calling the closure "shameful" and highlighting that it was announced on World Humanitarian Day, a day dedicated to honoring humanitarian workers worldwide.

The statement emphasized ongoing calls for accountability and thorough investigation, stating, "In the more than two years since, we have been pressing for Israel to swiftly and thoroughly consider the case and hold those responsible to account."

The World Central Kitchen condemned the decision, labeling it "inconsistent with the full truth and deeply offensive," and called for an independent commission to investigate the airstrike, arguing that the Israel Defense Forces cannot credibly investigate their own actions.

Australia, expressing its outrage, summoned Israel’s ambassador in response to the probe’s closure.

Summary of key points:

• Seven aid workers killed in Gaza in 2024 drone strike while delivering food aid.
• Victims included nationals from Britain, Canada, Australia, Poland, the US, and Palestine.
• Israel’s military termed the strike a "tragic mistake" but found no criminal wrongdoing.
• UK, Canada, and Australia condemned the probe’s closure as "shameful" and untimely.
• World Central Kitchen demands an independent investigation into the incident.
• Australia summoned Israel’s ambassador to express its disapproval.

Israel’s foreign ministry extended condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian law and personnel safety, pledging to prevent future tragedies.