London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The family of James Kirby, a World Central Kitchen support worker killed in Gaza, have called for an independent inquiry into his death and expressed neither British nor Israeli diplomats had been in contact, even though an internal Israeli investigation said his death had been a tragic misfortune.
Kirby was among seven support workers, including Britons John Chapman and James Henderson, who were slain when an Israeli airstrike targeted their spotted vehicle on 1 April. The Israeli investigation led to the dismissal of two officers.
Why Is James Kirby’s Family Demanding an Independent Inquiry?
The statement was published by Kirby’s cousin Louise on behalf of his household on the day of his memorial service in Bristol Cathedral. Describing his demise as a diabolical tragedy and a murder, the family expressed they were “still struggling to find solutions and accountability for what happened”, pointing out the aid staffers were travelling in a vehicle for which permission had been given for them to carry out the humanitarian assignment.
“The State of Israel expresses the murder was an accident. So we were surprised not to have had any contact or consolation from Israel’s ambassador to the UK in London or from any Israeli official,” the statement stated. “There must be a proper independent inquiry into the attack on innocent aid workers and for the evidence to be assessed if appropriate by a relevant court.”
Has the UK Government Responded to the Kirby Family’s Concerns?
The family states they have had no communication from the UK government since the aid workers’ deaths or received “any proof whether a credible independent investigation is taking place or the results of any investigation if it has taken place”.
What Were the Circumstances Surrounding the Aid Convoy Attack?
Kirby, 47, an ex-serviceman, was supplying security for the convoy moving food to a warehouse in Gaza. World Central Kitchen (WCK) was at the forefront of measures to create a maritime aid corridor from Cyprus.
An investigation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) discovered a drone operator mistakenly targeted the convoy after considering it had been taken over by Hamas gunmen. Three missiles were shot in three locations over five minutes. The first hit a car and some passengers ran to another vehicle. That was then struck by a second missile. Some survivors attempted to flee in a third car that was also struck. Everyone in the convoy was killed.
As well as the three Britons, the Australian national Lalzawmi Frankcom, Polish national Damian Sobol, Palestinian Saifeddin Issam Ayad Abutahas and US-Canadian national Jacob Flickinger were also killed in the hit.
What Actions Have Been Taken Against IDF Officers Involved?
After its internal investigation, the IDF removed two officers and formally reprimanded two senior commanders. The inquiry discovered that a plan setting out WCK’s movements, which had been arranged with the IDF, was not given to the drone unit that attacked the convoy.