Australia to Appoint Special Adviser for Investigation into Gaza Air Strike
Australia will appoint a special adviser to collaborate with Israel in ensuring transparency in the investigation of an air strike on Gaza that resulted in the deaths of seven aid workers, including an Australian national. Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the need for detailed answers regarding the incident involving aid workers from the US-based World Central Kitchen.
Victims of the Air Strike
- 43-year-old Australian Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom
- British, Palestinian, Polish, and US-Canadian employees
Wong expressed dissatisfaction with the information provided by Israel thus far, stating that the Australian government seeks to appoint a qualified individual to oversee the investigation process independently.
“The government will designate a special adviser to collaborate with the Israeli authorities to ensure that we receive updates on the progress of the investigation,” Wong stated. “Our aim is to have complete confidence in the transparency and accountability of the investigative process.”
Israel’s military has taken action by dismissing two officers in connection with the incident, which occurred in a region where humanitarian organizations warn of an impending famine. Despite Israel’s acknowledgment of responsibility, demands for an impartial inquiry persist.
The deaths of the aid workers prompted a tense discussion between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Wong mentioned that further details about the special adviser will be disclosed shortly.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict in Gaza commenced on October 7 with an unprecedented assault by Hamas militants, resulting in the deaths of 1,170 individuals in southern Israel, predominantly civilians, according to Israeli reports. Palestinian militants also seized approximately 250 Israeli and foreign hostages, with over 30 reported dead and more than 130 remaining in Gaza.
Israel’s retaliatory actions against Hamas have led to the deaths of at least 33,137 individuals in Gaza, primarily women and children, as reported by the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory.