World 

Defense News Philippines ,U.S ,Japan ,Australia The Philippines will hold joint naval drills with the United States, Japan and Australia, two diplomatic sources told AFP Thursday, as the four countries deepen military ties to counter China's expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region.The exercise will be held Sunday in the disputed South China Sea -- which Beijing claims almost entirely -- days before US President Joe Biden is due to hold the first trilateral summit with the leaders of the Philippines and Japan.The diplomatic sources spoke on condition of anonymity because the drills have not yet been officially announced.Earlier this week, the Australian warship HMAS Warramunga arrived at the Philippine island province of Palawan, which faces the hotly contested waters.The Philippine military said the visit was "aimed at strengthening military relations with partner nations".Regional tensions have escalated in the past year as China has become increasingly confident in asserting its claims over waters also claimed by the Philippines and Japan, as well as over self-ruled Taiwan.In response, the United States has sought to strengthen its alliances in the region, including with treaty allies Japan and the Philippines.Biden's planned April 11 summit with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House will be the latest in a series of meetings with Asia-Pacific partners.Biden will also hold separate bilateral meetings with Marcos and Kishida.Joint patrols between the US, Japanese and Philippine coast guards are expected to be announced during the summit, one of the diplomatic sources told AFP, after joint drills were held for the first time last year.IroncladThe exercise and summit follow repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels near disputed reefs off the Southeast Asian country in recent months.Top US officials have repeatedly declared the United States' "ironclad" commitment to defending the Philippines against an armed attack in the South China Sea.Relations between Manila and Beijing have deteriorated under Marcos, who has taken a stronger stance than his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte against Chinese actions in the sea.China claims most of the waterway, through which trillions of dollars of trade passes annually, despite rival claims from other nations and an international ruling that its claim has no legal basis.Marcos issued a strongly worded statement on March 28, vowing the Philippines would not be "cowed into silence, submission, or subservience" by China.He also said the Philippines would respond to recent incidents with countermeasures that would be "proportionate, deliberate, and reasonable".Meanwhile, talks between the Philippines and Japan for a defence pact that would allow the countries to deploy troops on each other's territory were "still ongoing", a spokesman for the Philippine foreign affairs department told reporters Thursday.Manila already has a similar agreement with Australia and the United States.In an interview with the Nikkei business daily on Thursday, Kishida said that Japan needs to show a bigger presence and "take greater responsibility" for providing options for the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries.He also said Tokyo, Washington and Manila "will work together to proceed with trilateral cooperative projects", including in semiconductors, digital technology and next-generation nuclear energy.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 15:11:34

 World 

Defense News U.SThe United States has partnered with eight industry leaders to advance the development of autonomous software and processes for the Army's Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) program. This initiative is part of the Pentagon's strategy to utilize ground-based drones to address modern threats, serving as escorts or scouts for soldiers in various capacities.The selected industry partners include Overland AI, Forterra, Neya Systems, Kodiak Robotics, Scale AI, Applied Intuition Inc., Palantir Technologies, and Anduril Industries. They will focus on different aspects of the RCV program, such as navigation systems, machine learning solutions, and software integration.The partnership was established following a rigorous assessment process, which evaluated 110 responses from solicitations issued by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).According to RCV Product Manager Steve Herrick, the aim is to merge software capabilities developed through the RCV Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP) into the RCV Full System Prototype (FSP). This collaboration is expected to result in robust and capable software that can operate autonomously across various terrains and scenarios.Byron Boots, Co-Founder and CEO of Overland AI, emphasized the mission to eliminate risks to human lives by utilizing robot-controlled vehicles for high-risk situations. He stated that there's no justification for risking soldiers' lives when robots can perform the tasks effectively.Zach Mears, Senior Vice President of Anduril Strategy, highlighted the critical role of integrating hardware and software components for the success of the RCV program. He emphasized the importance of developing a robust and flexible integration framework to support the evaluation and validation of autonomous systems.Overall, this collaboration represents a significant step forward in advancing autonomous capabilities for the Army's RCV program, with the potential to enhance soldiers' safety and effectiveness in diverse operational environments.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 15:07:06

 World 

Defense News IsraelThe Israeli military halted leave for all combat units on Thursday amid concerns of a possible escalation in violence after the killing of Iranian generals in Damascus this week drew threats of retaliation."In accordance with the situational assessment, it has been decided that leave will be temporarily paused for all IDF (Israel Defence Forces) combat units," the military said in a statement."The IDF is at war and the deployment of forces is under continuous assessment according to requirements," it said.On Wednesday, the military said it had drafted reservists to boost aerial defences. Reuters journalists and Tel Aviv residents said on Thursday that GPS services had been disrupted, an apparent measure meant to ward off guided missiles.Iran has vowed revenge for the killing of two of its generals along with five military advisers in an airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital Damascus on Monday.It was widely believed to be an Israeli attack, one of the most significant yet on Iranian interests in Syria, which Israel has neither confirmed nor denied and which carries the risk of further inflaming the region.Israel has been pressing its war on Hamas for six months, after the Palestinian Islamist group led an attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, and has also been trading fire almost daily with Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.Until now, Iran has avoided directly entering the fray, while supporting allies' attacks on Israeli and U.S. targets.Amos Yadlin, a former Israeli intelligence chief, said Iran may choose this Friday - the last in the Holy Muslim month of Ramadan and Iranian Quds (Jerusalem) Day - to respond to the Damascus strike, either directly or through a proxy."I will not be surprised if Iran will act tomorrow. Don't panic. Don't run to the shelters," said Yadlin, a Senior Fellow at the Kennedy School's Belfer Center at Harvard University, citing Israel's aerial defence systems."Be tuned for tomorrow and then, depending on the consequences of the attack, it may escalate," Yadlin said.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:58:03

 World 

Defense News GermanyGermany has launched a four-member flying unit at Ämari Air Base in Harjumaa, north Estonia, to bolster NATO’s command and control missions in the Baltic Region.The German Deployable Control and Reporting Centre (DCRC) Red Hawk was established following integration tests that included command post interoperability and civil air traffic identification drills.The new unit utilizes a grid of radar systems to track and identify targets in NATO’s air territories, employing various flight units during alert and training scrambles under the alliance’s air policing.The Red Hawk team is Germany’s latest contribution to NATO’s defense postures, joining the country’s four Eurofighters from the 74th Tactical Air Wing at Neuburg, and the ground-based DCRC from the 3rd Control and Reporting Area at Schönewalde.Aside from airspace surveillance, the German DCRC will also support training and exercises at the air base.NATO has been tightening its members’ air defense in the Baltic Region due to growing concerns brought by the ongoing war in Ukraine.Countries such as Poland, France, and Spain have taken on rotating policing missions, promoting the alliance’s goal of high interoperability among its members.Earlier this month, two German Air Force jets intercepted two Russian planes flying close to NATO territory without a flight plan.Latvia’s Control and Reporting Center reported the incident to the Combined Air Operations Centre at Uedem, Germany, which allowed Germany’s Eurofighter Typhoons to escort the aircraft flying over the Latvian coast.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:55:54

 World 

Defense News U.SIn a strategic move aimed at bolstering defense capabilities, Northrop Grumman has announced a collaborative effort with EpiSci, a leading software company specializing in trusted autonomy and AI solutions. The partnership seeks to enhance autonomous tactical solutions crucial for the United States and its allies.At the core of this collaboration is the integration of EpiSci’s TacticalAI software into Northrop Grumman’s aeronautics system architecture. This integration is poised to expedite the delivery of sophisticated autonomous solutions, leveraging Northrop Grumman’s extensive experience in autonomy technology.Tom Pieronek, Northrop Grumman’s Chief Technology Officer for Aeronautics Systems, emphasized the importance of such collaborations in meeting the evolving needs of customers, particularly in defense. Pieronek highlighted that integrating third-party technologies like TacticalAI allows for greater adaptability of uncrewed aircraft systems, enabling them to effectively navigate dynamic mission requirements.Dr. Dan Javorsek, EpiSci's Chief Technology Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the potential to deliver enhanced autonomous solutions critical for mission success. By integrating TacticalAI into Northrop Grumman’s hardware and control systems, EpiSci aims to provide unmatched capabilities in areas such as human-machine teaming, cognitive sensing, and next-generation command and control systems.EpiSci's TacticalAI technology is designed to advance mission-critical autonomy solutions, offering superior speed and performance. With a focus on operator-trusted autonomy, EpiSci aims to address the complex challenges faced by defense agencies and industry teams.The collaboration between Northrop Grumman and EpiSci underscores the commitment to leveraging innovation to address emerging threats and ensure the security of nations and their allies. By combining expertise and resources, both companies are poised to make significant strides in advancing autonomous capabilities for defense applications.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:47:48

 World 

Defense News U.SUltra Intelligence & Communications has introduced the Archer beyond-line-of-site (BLOS) troposcatter communications system, designed for the US Army and global partners. The system recently demonstrated its capability by maintaining a communications link beyond 185 kilometers (115 miles). Meeting the range requirement of the US Army, Archer ensures resilient and redundant secure communications to support military missions effectively. It offers quick deployment and self-alignment of antennas, ensuring seamless connectivity between transmitter and receiver.According to company official Chris Bishop, offering the Archer family of troposcatter systems to global defense partners reflects Ultra's commitment to invest, innovate, and deliver crucial capabilities when needed. With this successful demonstration, Archer has entered the global military market as a reliable communications solution.Troposcatter communication involves scattering radio waves in the lower atmosphere, interacting with atmospheric particles and scattering in various directions to be received by a receiver. Ultra emphasizes that this method withstands enemy interference and jamming, providing robust, resilient, and secure communications beyond the radio horizon.Faith Rhodes, the company's vice president, explains that troposcatter bridges communication gaps when satellite communications aren't accessible due to jamming or location issues, offering a cost-effective way to move beyond line-of-sight relays. Ultra's Archer system thus presents a practical solution for military communication challenges.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:40:36

 World 

Defense News RussiaRussian military forces have begun outfitting their tanks with a new electronic warfare system to counter the growing threat posed by FPV (First Person View) drones employed by Ukrainian forces. Tanks like the T-90M and T-72B3 are being equipped with protective screens called "cope cages" and a newly developed electronic warfare station featuring eight cylindrical antennas. These installations are being conducted directly in field workshops near the front lines.The primary objective of these electronic warfare systems is to defend tanks against Ukrainian drone attacks and disrupt communication frequencies in the vicinity of the tank. This defensive strategy aims to create a protective barrier, making it difficult for FPV drones to accurately target the tanks.Details about the origin and manufacturer of this new system are currently limited. However, it is reported that the system can detect drones at distances of up to 1.5 kilometers and disable them within a range of up to 1 kilometer. It is designed to jam drones with a total power output ranging from 800 to 1200 watts.Despite these advancements, real combat experiences have revealed shortcomings in the system's effectiveness. There have been instances where tanks equipped with this electronic warfare station, such as the T-90M, have been destroyed in battle, indicating that further improvements may be necessary.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:36:48

 World 

Defense NewsYemenIn a recent incident in Yemen's south, a surprise attack by Houthi rebels resulted in the death of 11 fighters loyal to the Yemeni government. The attack occurred early Wednesday morning in Lahij province, targeting fighters from the Southern Transitional Council (STC), the main southern separatist group. Mohammed al-Naqib, a spokesperson for STC, confirmed that their forces were the target and stated that despite the casualties, the rebels did not make any significant advances.The clash lasted for about five hours, during which the government loyalists managed to repel the Houthi attack. A military official corroborated the toll, mentioning that while the loyalists suffered casualties, they successfully thwarted the assault. The official did not provide exact figures for the number of rebel casualties.This incident comes amidst a period of relative calm in Yemen following the expiration of a six-month truce in April 2022. Despite the overall decrease in hostilities, sporadic flare-ups have occurred in various parts of the country. Notably, in March of the previous year, clashes with Houthi rebels in Marib province resulted in the deaths of at least 10 soldiers.The conflict in Yemen originated in 2014 when the Houthis seized control of the capital, Sanaa, leading to a Saudi-led military intervention the following year. Nearly a decade of war has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.Efforts to broker peace have faced setbacks, with the latest ceasefire agreement reached in December. However, the peace process has stalled due to continued Houthi aggression, including attacks on ships in the Red Sea since November. The rebels claim these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict.Speaking on the matter, US special envoy Tim Lenderking emphasized that the Red Sea attacks undermine efforts for peace in Yemen. He noted the challenges in negotiating a successful resolution as long as the Houthi aggression persists.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 07:53:41

 World 

Defense NewsUKThe Royal Marines are set to bolster their capabilities in extreme cold weather operations with a substantial investment in new equipment. Valued at GBP 10 million, the procurement of Lynx Brutal Over Snow Reconnaissance Vehicles, manufactured by a Finnish subsidiary of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), signals a significant shift in battlefield tactics. These snowmobiles, slated for delivery from March 2025 onwards, are tailored to traverse deep snow, providing the Commando Force with enhanced mobility and tactical advantage in hostile Arctic environments.Traditionally reliant on skis, snowshoes, or towed by armored vehicles, Royal Marines recognize the need for faster and more efficient means of traversing vast distances over challenging terrain. The evolving nature of modern warfare demands smaller, agile teams capable of executing reconnaissance, raiding, and strike missions deep within enemy territory. This strategic imperative underscores the importance of equipping the Commando Force with versatile assets such as the Lynx Brutal, facilitating rapid deployment and operational flexibility.Captain Nick Unwin RN, Commando Force Programme Director, underscores the transformative impact of this procurement, emphasizing the Lynx Brutal's compatibility with the Commandos' evolving operational requirements. With its proven track record and specialized design, the snowmobile aligns seamlessly with the Commando Force's mandate to operate beyond the capabilities of conventional forces in the High North.Steve Hayward, Team Leader for the Specialist & Autonomous Mobility (SAM) team at Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), highlights the collaborative efforts between stakeholders and industry partners in realizing this procurement milestone. The rigorous Assessment Phase trials, supported by DE&S, Navy, UKSC, and industry collaboration, underscore the commitment to delivering cutting-edge equipment that empowers the Commando Force to excel in extreme cold weather environments.While existing snowmobile assets remain operational, the decision to invest in the Lynx Brutal reflects a strategic imperative to maintain operational superiority. As part of the Littoral Response Group (North), a Royal Navy amphibious task force, the Commando Force is poised to swiftly respond to emerging threats in Northern Europe's waterways, including the complex Norwegian coastlines, the High North, and the Arctic.Recent military exercises in the Arctic alongside NATO allies underscore the Royal Marines' commitment to operational readiness and interoperability. During Exercise Nordic Response, Royal Marines executed vital reconnaissance and strike missions, neutralizing adversary infrastructure and paving the way for larger NATO forces to advance into Nordic regions. Led by strike teams from 45 Commando, these operations demonstrated the Commando Force's ability to operate in austere environments and integrate seamlessly with allied forces.The imminent arrival of new snowmobiles coincides with the acquisition of amphibious vehicles, further enhancing the Commando Force's expeditionary capabilities. Sixty Future All-Terrain Vehicles, equipped with amphibious swimming capability and increased lift capacity, are set to replace aging Bv 206s and Viking vehicles under a GBP 140 million international agreement. These vehicles, slated for service until 2058, underscore the Royal Marines' commitment to modernization and operational effectiveness in diverse operational environments.The investment in new snowmobiles and amphibious vehicles represents a strategic milestone in the Royal Marines' ongoing transformation. With enhanced mobility and operational flexibility, the Commando Force is better positioned to execute missions in extreme cold weather environments, safeguarding national interests and reinforcing NATO's collective defense posture.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 07:39:29

 World 

Defense NewsU.SPalantir Technologies, a prominent software developer, has secured a $9.8-million contract from the US Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). The contract aims to provide an electromagnetic battle management system prototype to aid the US Department of Defense.This platform is designed to support various tasks crucial to electronic warfare, including mission analysis, maneuver development, simulation, and production tasks. The web-based prototype will consolidate service tools and processes into a unified platform, enhancing operability and coordination among the joint electromagnetic spectrum operations of the US joint force.The system will enable the integration of component-level courses of action and schemes of maneuver into an overall joint plan, allowing for evaluation of electromagnetic spectrum opportunities and risks. This capability marks a significant technological advancement for operational planners, facilitating better decision-making in warfare scenarios.Palantir will work on the joint decision support prototype for a duration of 12 months. The company, based in Colorado, will collaborate with DISA’s Program Executive Office – Spectrum, the US Strategic Command, and other Combatant Commands to facilitate operations using the battle management solution.The company expressed pride in being selected through DISA’s competitive procurement process and aims to rapidly deliver a minimum viable capability to integrate the electromagnetic battle management system into all aspects of mission planning.In recent years, there have been several notable electronic warfare projects in the US Department of Defense. Keysight Technologies was awarded a contract in 2023 to supply electronic warfare threat simulators to the US Air Force. Additionally, Lockheed Martin signed an agreement to deliver truck-mounted electronic warfare system prototypes for the US Army in the same year. In 2022, Boeing enlisted BAE Systems to produce integrated electronic warfare capabilities for the US military’s F-15E and F-15EX Eagle combat fleets.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 07:01:38

 World 

Defense NewsU.SThe U.S. Navy, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin, recently completed a significant milestone in its Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) program. During the 12th Integrated Test Event (ITE-12), four LRASM missiles were successfully launched simultaneously, demonstrating their high-end lethality and effectiveness in combat scenarios.Lisbeth Vogelpohl, LRASM program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, emphasized the ongoing investment in enhancing LRASM's capabilities to meet the needs of modern warfare. The successful test reaffirmed confidence in the missile's reliability and its ability to fulfill mission objectives effectively.ITE-12 marked a significant advancement in LRASM's development, showcasing the latest configuration's capabilities and paving the way for further enhancements in the future. As a member of the AGM-158 family of cruise missiles, LRASM offers long-range precision and lethal capabilities against heavily defended surface targets, filling a crucial gap in the Navy's arsenal.The successful test underscores the commitment to providing warfighters with advanced tools to accomplish their missions safely and effectively. With LRASM's proven capabilities, the Navy can maintain superiority in maritime operations, ensuring the security of personnel and assets.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:56:51

 World 

Defense NewsNorth MacedoniaAerospace company Leonardo has secured an agreement with North Macedonia's Army to supply eight helicopters, comprising four AW149 and four AW169M models. These helicopters will serve various purposes, including transportation, firefighting, rescue missions, and medical assistance.The defense ministry of North Macedonia has confirmed that one of the helicopters will be specifically outfitted as a medical vehicle. The contract encompasses a comprehensive logistics support package, incorporating mission-specific features, spare parts, consumables, test equipment, and training for both flight and technical personnel.According to Defense Minister Slavjanka Petrovska, this procurement aligns with North Macedonia's strategic objective of modernizing its armed forces. Petrovska emphasized that the acquisition of these new helicopters will significantly enhance the aviation capabilities of the country's armed forces and bolster support for civil institutions.The decision to reinforce North Macedonia's military capabilities through modernization was initiated in 2018, as part of a broader strategy to identify areas within the army requiring substantial transformation. Currently, North Macedonia allocates 1.85 percent of its gross domestic product to defense spending, with a significant portion dedicated to modernization and equipment upgrades.Recent military acquisitions by North Macedonia also include a $118 million deal with the United States for Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, supplementing a previous contract for 71 units valued at $79 million.The arrival of the helicopters is anticipated between the second half of 2026 and the end of 2028, marking a milestone in North Macedonia's efforts towards a more advanced military infrastructure.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:48:28

 World 

Defense NewsUkraine Russia WarUkraine's partners are not providing enough air defence to protect against Russian missile attacks even though they have more than 100 Patriot systems in their own arsenals, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Wednesday.In an interview with Reuters, Kuleba said he would raise the issue of Patriot missile defence systems in every one of a series of meetings with NATO counterparts over the next two days in Brussels.In recent weeks, Russia has unleashed an increased barrage of attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure, underscoring Kyiv's urgent need for protection."Partners did provide us with their different (air defence) systems, we appreciate that, but it's just simply insufficient, given the scale of the war," Kuleba said.He said Ukraine's partners had more than 100 Patriot systems at their disposal but had so far not been willing to share even five to seven more - the number that Kyiv says is the minimum needed to provide significant additional protection."Is it such a big problem? Is it not feasible to provide Ukraine with the minimum request?" Kuleba asked.Russia fired over 3,000 guided aerial bombs, 600 drones and 400 missiles at Ukraine in March alone, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday.Kuleba said Russia's attacks in March involved 94 ballistic missiles, which are much faster than more commonly used cruise missiles, and harder to shoot down."Come on, guys. I mean ... this happens to us every day," Kuleba said, summarising his message to Ukraine's allies. "And the solution is there. It's just an issue of political will. So someone has to make the decision."Kuleba said it was not clear to him why allies were so far not providing extra Patriots, especially as Kyiv's partners did not face the missile threat that Ukraine faces every day.He argued that such support would help defeat Russia and prevent a larger war across Europe."When I say that Europe will be at war and missiles will be falling on Brussels and other European cities. I'm not exaggerating. All of this is going to happen if Ukraine doesn't win the war against Russia," he said."So the best way to save your Patriots from intercepting missiles (over your countries) and your soldiers from dying is to send your Patriots to Ukraine and give Ukrainian soldiers everything they need."Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow has no interest in invading other European countries.Kuleba spoke as NATO foreign ministers met to discuss how to put military support to Ukraine on a longer-term footing.Asked about a proposal by NATO boss Jens Stoltenberg - which diplomats say includes a plan for a 100 billion euro fund for Ukraine over five years - Kuleba said he welcomed support but it should represent new funds and not repurpose prior commitments.He said NATO had struggled to raise 500 million euros for a Comprehensive Assistance Package to reform and equip Ukraine's armed forces, so stepping up to 20 billion a year would be a "gargantuan" effort."If this particular initiative is to become reality, we have to make sure that this will be (a) new 100 billion."

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:43:40

 World 

Defense NewsFrance ,Germay ,PolandIn light of Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and Poland have jointly called for a stronger stance on European defense. Annalena Baerbock (Germany), Stéphane Séjourné (France), and Radoslaw Sikorski (Poland) emphasized the need to harness Europe's industrial capabilities to bolster military strength.In a guest article, the ministers stressed the importance of long-term contracts with clear timelines and financial commitments, along with purchase guarantees from European governments. They suggested that dedicating two percent of gross domestic product to defense could be just a starting point, indicating a willingness to invest more if necessary.On the occasion of NATO's 75th anniversary, the ministers acknowledged the historical role of the United States in shouldering a disproportionate burden within the alliance. However, they emphasized that collective defense requires a joint effort from all members.Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, the ministers reaffirmed their stance that European peace hinges on halting Russian imperialism. They emphasized the necessity of standing firm against aggression to ensure stability in the region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:27:02

 World 

Defense NewsIsraelIsrael’s defense chief said Wednesday a strike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza was a “grave mistake” after the deaths prompted a chorus of international outrage. “This incident was a grave mistake,” IDF chief Herzi Halevi said in a video message after the strike that hit a World Central Kitchen (WCK) convoy delivering aid on Monday. “It shouldn’t have happened,” Halevi said, as he blamed the strike on a nightime “misidentification.” “We are sorry for the unintentional harm to the members of WCK.” AFPTV footage from the scene showed the punctured roof of a vehicle emblazoned with WCK’s logo alongside the mangled wreck of other vehicles. Since the October start of the war, the US-based charity has been involved in feeding displaced Gazans and was one of two organizations spearheading the delivery of food aid arriving by sea. The employees killed on Monday had just unloaded “more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza on the maritime route,” WCK said. The attack, which killed Australian, British, Palestinian, Polish, and US-Canadian staff, was widely condemned, with world leaders demanding an investigation. In a strongly worded statement, US President Joe Biden said Israel “has not done enough to protect aid workers trying to deliver desperately needed help to civilians.” He called for a “swift” investigation to bring accountability to what he said was not a “stand alone incident.” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the General Assembly that 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in the war. He called the strike “unconscionable” but “an inevitable result of the way the war is being conducted.” “It demonstrates yet again the urgent need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.” Anger and Concern WCK said it was mourning the loss of its seven “heroes,” naming them on Wednesday as Palestinian Saifeddine Issam Ayad Abutaha, 25; Australian Lalzawmi (Zomi) Frankcom, 43; Pole Damian Sobol, 35; American-Canadian Jacob Flickinger, 33; and Brits John Chapman, 57, James (Jim) Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47. “These 7 beautiful souls were killed by the IDF in a strike as they were returning from a full day’s mission,” WCK CEO Erin Gore said. The organization called the strike a “targeted attack” and said its team had been coordinating its movements with the Israeli forces. “This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organizations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war,” Gore said in an earlier statement. Gaza has been under Israeli blockade since the start of the war, with the United Nations accusing Israel of preventing humanitarian aid deliveries and warning of “catastrophic” hunger. World Central Kitchen was facilitating the provision of supplies brought by sea from Cyprus. Following the strike, it said it was suspending its operations in the region, deepening concerns about how urgently needed food aid would reach a starving population. Cyprus said on Tuesday that the aid ship the Jennifer was returning to the Mediterranean island with around 240 tonnes of supplies that had not been unloaded. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military had “unintentionally” killed the aid workers, calling it a “tragic case” that would be investigated “right to the end.” He did not, however, apologize. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he spoke to Netanyahu by phone, raising his “anger and concern.” Britain summoned the Israeli ambassador to London and demanded “full accountability.” And Poland demanded compensation for the families of the killed aid workers. The bodies of the six foreign aid workers were to be sent to Gaza’s southern border on Wednesday before being repatriated, according to Marwan al Hams, the director of a hospital in the territory’s southern city Rafah. ‘Traitor’ The aid workers’ deaths come as relentless Israeli strikes continue to pound the territory, flattening critical infrastructure, all but collapsing the health system, and pushing more than half the population to the brink of famine. Overnight, Israeli strikes killed at least 60 people, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Wednesday. Regional tensions have also surged after Israel was blamed for an air strike on the consular annex of the Iranian embassy in Syria’s capital Damascus on Monday that killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals. Tehran, which backs Hamas and other groups fighting Israel and its allies across the region, has vowed revenge. Netanyahu has promised to push on with the war to destroy Hamas despite nightly protests demanding he step down. The bloodiest-ever Gaza war erupted with Hamas’s October 7 attack, which resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israel’s retaliatory campaign has killed at least 32,916 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza. During their attack on Israel, Palestinian militants also seized around 250 hostages. Israel believes about 130 remain in Gaza, including 34 who are presumed dead. The families of the Israeli hostages have blasted Netanyahu and staged four consecutive nights of protests. Thousands gathered in front of the country’s parliament Tuesday, with former prime minister Ehud Barak blaming Netanyahu for the October 7 “disaster” and demanding an election. Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan is still held in Gaza, accused Netanyahu of trying to blacken the reputation of the hostage families. “You call us traitors when you are the traitor, a traitor to your people, to the State of Israel,” Zangauker said. The Palestinians, meanwhile, have revived their application to become a full member state in the United Nations. In a letter to UN chief Guterres seen by AFP, Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour requested “upon instructions of the Palestinian leadership” that an application dating back to 2011 be reconsidered this month by the Security Council.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 16:21:43