During a memorial service at the Washington National Cathedral, Celebrity Chef Jose Andres paid tribute to seven aid workers who were killed by Israeli forces in Gaza. These workers were from Andres’ charity, World Central Kitchen (WCK), and he praised them as “the best of humanity.” The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that Israel mistakenly killed the aid workers in an airstrike earlier this month, leading to global condemnation.
Andres expressed his sorrow and anger at the attack, stating that the Israeli forces targeted the aid workers “systematically, car by car.” He honored each worker individually during an emotional eulogy at the service, highlighting their selfless dedication to feeding the hungry in Gaza. Andres emphasized that their examples should inspire others to do better and be better.
WCK continues to demand a thorough investigation into the actions of the Israeli forces that led to the deaths of their workers. Andres stressed that the official explanation provided by Israel was not sufficient and that there was no excuse for the killings. The service at the cathedral brought together over 500 attendees, including families of the victims, WCK staff, US officials, and diplomats from various countries. Vice President Kamala Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff, represented the White House in the absence of President Joe Biden, who was traveling in New York. The service included readings and prayers from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian traditions, as well as a musical tribute by cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Andres urged those present at the service to honor these brave individuals whose lives were cut short while working tirelessly to help others. He encouraged everyone to use their voices for change and demanded accountability for those responsible for these heinous acts.
The attendees mourned together and vowed to carry on with their work towards peace and justice for Palestine.
This memorial service served as a reminder of how important it is for us all to stand up against human rights abuses wherever they occur. As Andres said so eloquently during his eulogy: “These seven individuals represent what is best about humanity – compassion, courage, selflessness