A memorial service is set to take place at the National Cathedral in Washington to honor the seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen who tragically lost their lives in Gaza earlier this month. The workers were killed by Israeli airstrikes while on a food delivery mission.
Celebrity chef and philanthropist José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen, is expected to speak at the service. Famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma will also perform in remembrance of the fallen aid workers.
Senior figures from the Biden administration, including Douglas Emhoff and U.S. Assistant Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, will be in attendance to pay their respects.
The aid workers who lost their lives in the attack have been identified as individuals from various nationalities, including Palestinian, British, American, Canadian, Australian, and Polish citizens.
Following an investigation, Israel acknowledged that the military officials responsible for the airstrike had acted in violation of policy. The incident has sparked international outrage and calls for changes in military operations to protect aid workers and civilians in Gaza.
World Central Kitchen, along with other humanitarian organizations, temporarily suspended operations in Gaza after the attack. The U.N. has warned of a looming famine in the region, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
Thursday's memorial service will bring together religious leaders from different faiths to honor the memory of the fallen aid workers. Funerals have already taken place in their respective home countries.
