World Central Kitchen to resume operations in Gaza following deadly strike after weeks

World Central Kitchen, the nonprofit organization founded by celebrity chef José Andrés, is set to resume its operations in Gaza after a four-week hiatus following the tragic deaths of seven aid workers in Israeli air strikes. The organization had suspended its vital food aid deliveries in Gaza after the April 1 strike that claimed the lives of its dedicated staff members.

Despite the risks, World Central Kitchen is determined to continue its mission of providing food aid to the people of Gaza, where the humanitarian situation remains dire. With 276 trucks filled with nearly 8 million meals ready to enter Gaza through various means, including land, air, and sea, the organization is committed to feeding as many people as possible.

The organization has established community kitchens and high-production kitchens in Gaza, with plans for a third high-production kitchen underway. World Central Kitchen emphasized its commitment to working hand in hand with the Palestinian community, empowering them to feed their own people in times of crisis.

The tragic incident on April 1, which claimed the lives of aid workers from various nationalities, including U.S.-Canadian dual national Jacob Flickinger, prompted the Israeli military to take action against those responsible for the deadly drone strikes. The IDF acknowledged the grave mistake and apologized for the attack, leading to changes in their rules of engagement.

Despite the challenges and risks involved, World Central Kitchen remains steadfast in its mission to alleviate hunger in Gaza, where over 1 million people are facing famine. The organization’s decision to resume operations underscores its unwavering commitment to serving those in need, even in the toughest of times.