Two Aid Workers Killed in Gaza Airstrikes, Humanitarian Efforts Halted
Two humanitarian workers lost their lives in Gaza on Saturday as Israeli airstrikes targeted the region. Among the deceased was a member of the US-based charity World Central Kitchen (WCK), and another from Save the Children, sparking widespread concern about the safety of aid workers operating in conflict zones.
The Incident
The WCK member, identified as Ahed Azmi Qdeih, was struck while traveling in a vehicle in Khan Younis, Southern Gaza. The Israeli military alleged that Qdeih was linked to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, specifically on Kibbutz Nir Oz, and had been under surveillance. However, no evidence supporting this claim was provided.
Qdeih's family strongly refuted these allegations, describing him as an engineer devoted to humanitarian work. WCK also denied any knowledge of the alleged connection, stating:
"World Central Kitchen had no knowledge that any individual in the vehicle had alleged ties to the October 7th Hamas attack."
Following this tragedy, WCK announced a pause in its Gaza operations while seeking further details.
Later in the day, Save the Children confirmed the death of their 39-year-old staff member, Ahmad Faisal Isleem Al-Qadi, also in Khan Younis. The organization released a heartfelt statement mourning his loss:
"Ahmad was a valued member of our team and loved by all who met him."
Civilian Casualties and Escalation
Alongside the targeted strikes, reports indicate a broader escalation in violence. Medics reported at least 32 Palestinian casualties overnight, with multiple strikes targeting vehicles and residential areas. One airstrike killed nine individuals near a distribution center for aid supplies.
The Israeli military defended its actions, claiming to target Hamas operatives and accusing the group of using civilians as human shields. Hamas has not yet commented on these allegations.
Ceasefire Talks Underway
Amid the ongoing violence, diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire have resumed. Leaders of Hamas were expected to meet Egyptian officials in Cairo on Saturday, seeking a potential agreement to end the conflict. The talks are being mediated by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
While Hamas is advocating for an agreement that could involve the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that the war will not end until Hamas is eradicated.
The Humanitarian Toll
The conflict, which began more than 13 months ago following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel, has caused immense suffering. Gaza officials report that at least 44,382 people have died, and nearly the entire population has been displaced. Vast areas of the region are in ruins, leaving the humanitarian crisis at an all-time high.
This tragic incident underscores the dire need for a ceasefire to protect innocent lives and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in desperate need.
Reference from:-https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/world-central-kitchen-member-among-2-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-7145553