Britain, Canada and Australia have condemned Israel‘s decision to close a criminal investigation into the deaths of seven aid workers in Gaza.
The workers were killed in April 2024. They had been travelling with World Central Kitchen after helping deliver food aid.
The Israeli military described the strike as a tragic mistake. It later acknowledged serious errors in the operation.
Allies demand accountability
The three governments criticised the decision in a joint statement. The move was described as “shameful”.
The workers included three Britons. A dual US-Canadian citizen was also killed. Polish, Australian and Palestinian nationals were among the dead.
The convoy had been struck by an Israeli drone. The attack caused international outrage and renewed concern over aid worker safety.
More than two years later, the case remains disputed. The governments said accountability was still needed.
Criminal charges will not follow
The Israeli military said no criminal investigation would be pursued. Its preliminary review found no reasonable suspicion of criminal misconduct.
Several mistakes were acknowledged. They were reported at different levels of command.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry defended the decision. It said the ruling had been made by independent military prosecutors.
The ministry also offered condolences. It said the deaths remained deeply regrettable.
World Central Kitchen demands inquiry
World Central Kitchen rejected the decision. The charity called it offensive and inconsistent with the full truth.
An independent commission was demanded. The group said the military could not credibly investigate its own actions.
The charity has continued to call for greater accountability. The case has also kept attention on the risks facing humanitarian workers.
Pressure grows on Israel
Australia had already summoned Israel’s ambassador. The move followed its criticism of the investigation’s closure.
Britain and Canada have now joined that criticism. Their governments said the decision was especially troubling because it was announced on World Humanitarian Day.
The dispute is likely to keep pressure on Israel. Questions remain over accountability for the deaths and the protection of aid workers in Gaza.
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