World Central Kitchen Resumes Operations in Gaza Following Tragic Loss of Staff
World Central Kitchen (WCK) has announced that it will be resuming its operations in Gaza after pausing due to the deaths of seven staff members in Israeli airstrikes last month. CEO Erin Gore stated that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire and the organization is committed to feeding as many people as possible.
Gaza residents are facing catastrophic levels of hunger, with parts of the region experiencing famine, according to a U.S. official. Despite the challenges, WCK has already distributed over 43 million meals in Gaza and has nearly 8 million more meals ready to enter the region through various means.
In addition to their ongoing efforts, WCK is finalizing the construction of a new kitchen in southern Gaza named Damian’s Kitchen, in honor of one of the staff members who lost their life in the airstrikes. This new facility will help the organization further expand its reach and provide essential meals to those in need.
While Israel has allowed some aid into Gaza, aid groups argue that it is still far from what is needed. Israel denies limiting aid, but the United Nations Security Council reports that at least 224 humanitarian workers have been killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict since its start in October.
President Biden recently spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and discussed increasing humanitarian assistance into Gaza. Israel has apologized for the airstrikes and admitted to violating military operating procedures. As a result, senior military officers will be reprimanded and dismissed.
WCK continues to seek answers and advocate for change to better protect NGO workers in humanitarian missions. The organization remains dedicated to serving the people of Gaza and addressing the urgent need for food assistance in the region.
“Zombie enthusiast. Subtly charming travel practitioner. Webaholic. Internet expert.”