World Food Program USA Statement in Response to Attack on Aid Workers in Gaza

On behalf of the entire World Food Program USA community, we want to express our outrage and deep sorrow upon hearing that seven World Central Kitchen humanitarian workers were killed yesterday by an airstrike in Gaza. This is an unacceptable loss.

Nearly 200 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza in just six months, far higher than any other modern conflict. It is unconscionable that people bringing food and aid to a starving population would be killed. Aid workers and the people we serve should never be a target.

Safe access is paramount and must be respected in accordance with international law. To stop famine and prevent further death and suffering in Gaza, we need humanitarian staff and supplies to move freely, and the people of Gaza to access assistance safely. We must have security guarantees to deliver safely in coordination with other U.N. and humanitarian partners.

A humanitarian ceasefire is essential to protect lives and prevent famine.

We send our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed, and to the entire World Central Kitchen staff. We stand with you during this time of great pain.