Australia ‘outraged’ over Israel decision to close probe into aid worker killings

SYDNEY, Aug 20 — Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed "outrage" over Israel's decision to abandon a criminal investigation into the deaths of Australian aid worker Lalzawmi "Zomi" Frankcom and her colleagues in Gaza. Wong announced her government's intent to summon Israel's ambassador, Hillel Newman, to "convey our views directly" to the Israeli government.

The Australian delegation learned of the decision late last night, just moments before it was officially announced on World Humanitarian Day. This timing is particularly insulting to Frankcom's family, humanitarian workers, and all Australians, Wong stated.

Frankcom was among seven World Central Kitchen staff members killed in April 2024 when their aid convoy was mistakenly targeted by an Israeli air strike. The incident sparked worldwide condemnation and a renewed push for increased safety measures for aid workers in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that the Israeli military had "unintentionally" killed the volunteers. However, Israel's military announced yesterday that no criminal investigations would be launched into their deaths.

Wong emphasized that Zomi represented "the best of Australia" and her courage deserved to be celebrated. Her family deserved justice, Wong added. "This decision falls far short of the accountability we expect."