U.S. Urges Israel to Investigate Airstrike Killing Aid Workers in Gaza
Pressure Mounts on Israel After Airstrike Kills World Central Kitchen Aid Workers
Washington has called on Israel to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation into an Israeli airstrike that tragically claimed the lives of seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen charity in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for accountability during his visit to Paris, where he met with senior officials, including President Emmanuel Macron.
Blinken Urges Protection of Humanitarian Workers
Blinken stressed the importance of protecting humanitarian workers, describing them as heroes who risk their lives to help others. While he refrained from directly condemning the attack, French counterpart Stephane Sejourne openly condemned the Israeli airstrike, labeling it as unjustifiable.
Israeli Response and International Pressure
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret over the unintended airstrike and promised an independent inquiry. However, calls for immediate action and condemnation came from various quarters, including Democratic U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, who demanded an independent investigation into the incident.
Concerns Over Arms Transfers to Israel
The incident has raised concerns about the ongoing arms transfers to Israel, with some questioning the appropriateness of supplying weapons amid escalating tensions. Blinken emphasized the need for Israel to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect civilians, hinting at a possible review of arms transfer policies.
Focus on Ukraine and Western Support
Aside from the Gaza conflict, Blinken also highlighted the critical situation in Ukraine and the urgent need for more Western support in its war against Russia. He underscored the importance of providing necessary military aid to Ukraine to bolster its defense capabilities.
“It’s another reason why the supplementary budget request that President (Joe) Biden has made to (the U.S.) Congress must be fulfilled as quickly as possible,” Blinken emphasized, urging swift action on the pending military and financial aid package for Ukraine.
House Speaker Mike Johnson’s delay in endorsing the aid package has been a point of contention, with Biden urging swift approval to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
