World Central Kitchen (WCK) has announced the temporary suspension of its operations at the main kitchen in Rafah due to the ongoing attacks in the area amidst Israeli military operations. The humanitarian organization cited the need to relocate many of its community kitchens further north in response to the escalating violence.
WCK expressed concern for the families in Rafah who are being forced to flee once again as a result of the attacks. Despite the challenging circumstances, the Palestinian team at WCK, all of whom are directly impacted by the conflict, continue to show up every day to provide support to their neighbors in need.
According to WCK, nearly 100,000 meals were distributed the day before the announcement of the pause in operations. The organization plans to increase its capacity in the coming days, with 58 aid trucks having entered Gaza since Sunday to deliver essential supplies.
This decision comes in the wake of a tragic incident in April when seven aid workers from WCK lost their lives in an Israeli military strike in Gaza. The incident sparked international condemnation and highlighted the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones.