World Central Kitchen resumes operations in Gaza
World Central Kitchen announces the establishment of a third kitchen in Gaza’s Mawasi area, named ‘Damian’s Kitchen’ in honor of Polish aid worker Damian Sobol, who was among those killed in the April 1 attack
In a statement released on Sunday, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) declared its intention to resume operations in Gaza Strip, just days after an Israeli strike claimed the lives of seven of its workers, compelling a temporary halt to its humanitarian efforts in the region.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. We are restarting our operation with the same energy, dignity, and focus on feeding as many people as possible,” said Erin Gore, the charity’s chief executive officer, affirming the decision to recommence activities despite the recent tragedy.
“We will return soon with #ChefsForGaza and continue our life-saving mission. Wherever there’s a fight so that hungry people may eat, we will be there,” CEO Gore stated.
43M meals to Gaza
Gore emphasized WCK’s commitment to providing aid to Gaza, stating, “WCK will continue to get as much food into Gaza, including northern Gaza, as possible by land, air or sea.”
Before the suspension of operations, WCK had distributed over 43 million meals in Gaza since Oct. 7, according to its CEO. This work was “the most life-saving mission in the organization’s 14-year history.”
Opening of 3rd kitchen in Gaza, in honor of Polish aid worker
Facing the dilemma of whether to halt operations entirely or persist in the face of escalating risks, Gore explained, “Ultimately, we decided we must keep feeding, continuing our mission of showing up to provide food to people during the toughest of times.”
The charity revealed plans to deploy 276 trucks, with the equivalent of almost 8 million meals, via the Rafah Crossing, with additional support from Jordan and potential maritime routes from Cyprus and the Ashdod Port.
Furthermore, WCK announced the establishment of a third kitchen in Gaza’s Mawasi area, named “Damian’s Kitchen” in honor of Polish aid worker Damian Sobol, who was among those killed in the April 1 attack.
WCK demands impartial investigation of April 1 incident
A view of the destroyed roof of a vehicle where employees from the World Central Kitchen were killed in an Israeli airstrike, Deir Al-Balah, in central Gaza, April 2. (Reuters)
On April 1, the tragic incident, which claimed the lives of seven aid workers – three British nationals, an Australian, a Polish national, a U.S.-Canadian dual citizen, and a Palestinian – elicited global condemnation and demands for accountability. WCK founder Jose Andres joined the chorus of voices questioning Israel’s assertion that the attack was a “mistake” and called for an impartial international investigation.
Erin Gore stated that while the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued an apology for the attack, terming it a “grave mistake,” WCK remains steadfast in its pursuit of answers and advocacy for the safety of NGO workers operating in challenging environments.
Erin Gore reiterated the charity’s demand for an impartial international investigation to ensure the protection of humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
Source: Newsroom
