Biden not backing demands for independent probe into World Central Kitchen strike

The Biden administration does not support calls for an independent, third-party investigation into the Israeli airstrike that killed seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers, and non-governmental organization representatives Jose and He is pushing back against the demands of Les and Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine. Virginia).

White House national security communications adviser John Kirby said Friday that the administration is considering an Israeli investigation into military attacks on WCK workers and is “withholding judgment” on whether an independent international investigation is needed. He said that

“I’m going to reserve judgment on whether further investigation is necessary,” he said in a phone call with reporters.

Mr. Andres issued a statement on Thursday, warning the United States, Australia, Canada, Poland and the United Kingdom of “an independent third party regarding these attacks, including whether they were carried out intentionally or in violation of international law.” called for an investigation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strike targeting WCK workers was a regrettable mistake. After an initial investigation by Israel’s military watchdog, the military dismissed two officers and reprimanded three others.

But some Democratic lawmakers, who have consistently supported Israel’s right to self-defense in its goal of defeating Hamas, have expressed outrage at Israeli attacks on aid workers and raised the need for further sanctions. There is.

“The United States should join calls for an independent international investigation into the World Central Kitchen volunteer deaths in which an American died on Monday.” Kane said.member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committee.

Kaine added that the United States should refrain from sending offensive weapons to Israel and instead prioritize defensive weapons.

The killing of seven aid workers brings the death toll to more than 200 humanitarian aid workers in Gaza, and an estimated 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s war against Hamas, including Hamas fighters. It is estimated to be.

“Israel must have the ability to once again defend itself against those who seek to annihilate it, such as Hamas. However, the deployment of any more offensive weapons at this time would threaten Israel, Gaza, and the region. It will only cause more suffering,” Kane said.