UK, Canada, Australia slam Israel ending probe into aid worker killings

Britain, Canada, and Australia denounced Israel's decision to halt an investigation into the deaths of seven aid workers killed in Gaza in 2024. The World Central Kitchen employees - three British citizens, a US-Canadian dual national, a Pole, an Australian, and a Palestinian - perished in a drone strike on their vehicle convoy while overseeing the unloading of a food aid shipment.

Israel's military described the incident as a "tragic mistake." After over two years of urging, the three nations released a joint statement condemning Israel's announcement on 19 August 2026 that it would not pursue criminal investigations into the strike, without further explanation. They called it "shameful," especially on World Humanitarian Day, when the world commemorates humanitarian workers.

The Israeli military admitted to errors at various command levels, but a preliminary investigation found no reasonable suspicion of criminal misconduct. Israel extended condolences to the families of the seven aid workers, stating the decision not to launch a criminal probe was made by its independent military prosecution authorities based on strict professional and legal considerations.

The US-based World Central Kitchen called the decision inconsistent with the full truth and deeply offensive, demanding an independent commission to investigate the airstrikes. Australia also expressed outrage, summoning Israel's ambassador to the country.