Chef and philanthropist José Andrés condemned Israeli attacks in Gaza, asserting that they constitute a continuous “crime against humanity.” Speaking on ABC’s “This Week,” Andrés expressed deep concern over the civilian casualties, including seven volunteers from his World Central Kitchen aid convoy.
According to Andrés, the attacks have persisted for an extended period, resulting in the targeting of anything that moves. He lamented that the conflict no longer appears to be solely about combating terrorism or defending Israel but has escalated into a broader assault on humanity. The emotional interview saw Andrés in tears as he conveyed his distress.
The aid workers were killed in an Israeli airstrike as they departed the Deir al-Balah warehouse. Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military and traveling in armored cars adorned with the World Central Kitchen logo, they were caught in the attack.
Chef José Andrés (Credits: ABC News)
Israel attributed the incident to a “grave mistake,” stating that a World Central Kitchen worker was misidentified as a Hamas gunman. Consequently, the Israeli military discharged two officers involved in the attack.
Andrés dismissed Israel’s explanation, arguing against consistently implicating Hamas in such incidents. His interview coincided with the six-month anniversary of Hamas’ initial attack on Israel, which triggered the Gaza war.
The United States has intensified pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government regarding the escalating civilian casualties in Gaza. Some officials have even proposed cutting off aid to Israel as a means to facilitate a ceasefire.
President Joe Biden, who recently spoke with Andrés, expressed outrage over the deaths of the World Central Kitchen volunteers. He emphasized that continued U.S. support in the Gaza conflict hinges on immediate actions to safeguard civilians and aid workers.
Reflecting on the attack in his ABC interview, Andrés labeled it as unforgivable, acknowledging the lasting impact it would have on him personally. He lamented the loss of life among individuals who selflessly provided food to hungry civilians amidst the turmoil of war, deeming their deaths a tragic consequence of the ongoing conflict.
