Australia has assigned a former military chief to oversee Israel’s investigation into the deaths of seven aid workers in Gaza, aiming for “full accountability” for the killings. Among the victims was Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom, an Australian national and part of the group of World Central Kitchen volunteers who lost their lives in an Israeli air strike last week.
Following the incident, Israel’s military announced the dismissal of two officers, but its explanations have failed to quell international outrage. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has strongly criticized Israel’s initial response.
On Monday, Wong appointed retired defense force chief Mark Binskin as a special adviser to collaborate with Israel’s military in ongoing investigations.
“Australia has made clear to the Israeli government our expectation and trust that this engagement will be facilitated,” she said.
“The Australian government has been clear that we expect full accountability for these deaths.”
Wong stated that Binskin, a highly esteemed senior officer who previously headed Australia’s air force, would assess “measures taken to hold those responsible to account”
She also mentioned that he would provide advice to the Australian government regarding the necessity of additional investigations or repercussions.
World Central Kitchen, headquartered in the US and founded by Spanish-American celebrity chef Jose Andres, alleged that Israeli forces carried out a “targeted attack” resulting in the deaths of the seven aid workers. The victims comprised 43-year-old Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom from Australia, along with individuals from Britain, Palestine, Poland, and the US-Canada.
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