In the aftermath of strikes in Gaza that resulted in seven fatalities, the founder of World Central Kitchen (WCK) has accused Israel of systematically targeting aid workers. The strikes, which hit three WCK vehicles in central Gaza on Monday, have sparked international condemnation and strained Western support for Israel’s actions in the region.

WCK issued a statement on Thursday challenging Israel’s response to the attacks and calling for an independent inquiry into the incident. Despite Israel admitting to the killings, describing them as unintentional harm to non-combatants, WCK maintains that the strikes were deliberate military attacks on clearly marked humanitarian vehicles carrying civilians.

Among the victims were three Britons, a Palestinian, a US-Canadian dual citizen, an Australian, and a Pole. Their deaths have ignited fury in their respective countries and intensified scrutiny of Israel’s conduct in Gaza since the beginning of its conflict with Hamas.

In a recent Reuters interview, Jose Andres, the celebrity chef who founded WCK, accused Israel of systematically targeting the aid workers, emphasizing that the strikes were not accidental but deliberate actions.

WCK has called on the governments of the deceased to demand an inquiry into the incident and urged the Israeli government to preserve all relevant materials for investigation.

Although the Chief of Staff of the Israeli military, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has apologized for the strike, attributing it to a mistake resulting from misidentification during complex nighttime conditions, Israel’s response has failed to quell anger in the home nations of the victims.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized Israel’s explanation, stating that it was insufficient and calling for accountability under humanitarian law.

The response of the United States, Israel’s key ally, is closely monitored. President Joe Biden is set to have his first conversation with Netanyahu since the attacks, with reports indicating that Biden is angry and frustrated and intends to convey his sentiments to Netanyahu during the call.

An analysis conducted by CNN found that the attack involved multiple precision strikes on WCK vehicles, raising concerns about the safety of humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza.

The strikes have not only intensified global anger but have also raised fears of increased danger for humanitarian workers providing aid in Gaza, where they face significant risks in carrying out their missions.