Washington, D.C. – Mourners gathered at Washington National Cathedral to honor the lives of seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen who were tragically killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. The solemn event took place under gray skies on a chilly spring morning, as guests, including renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés, filled the gothic structure.
The interfaith service featured performances and prayers from various religious traditions, with moving tributes paid to the victims by Andrés. He spoke emotionally about each individual, highlighting their dedication to helping others and their unwavering commitment to humanity. Among those being remembered were individuals from Palestine, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Poland.
Photographs of the deceased were displayed on screens throughout the cathedral, showcasing their work and the impact they had made. The memorial service was attended by high-profile guests, including deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell and Sen. Chris Van Hollen, as well as diplomats from around the world.
The deaths of the aid workers sparked international outrage, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing the attack as unintentional. However, Israel’s military later released the results of its investigation, acknowledging serious errors in the incident. World Central Kitchen called for an independent commission to further examine the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Following the tragedy, WCK paused its operations in Gaza as other aid organizations also halted their activities in the region. Andrés, the founder of the organization, has been vocal about the need for accountability and justice for the victims. Despite the challenges, his dedication to providing food as a universal human right remains steadfast.
The memorial at Washington National Cathedral served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by humanitarian workers around the world. As the global community mourns the loss of these individuals, the call for transparency and accountability in humanitarian efforts grows stronger. In the face of tragedy, Andrés and World Central Kitchen stand as beacons of hope and compassion, continuing their mission to feed the hungry and bring people together in times of crisis.