IDF Strikes Terrorist Linked to October 7 Massacre, Raises Questions About WCK’s Role

On Saturday morning, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) targeted a vehicle in Gaza containing Ahed Azmi Qudeih, a terrorist and World Central Kitchen (WCK) employee, who had participated in the October 7 massacre at Kibbutz Nir Oz. The military announced that Qudeih, a member of a terrorist group, was closely monitored for some time before the strike and was targeted after the IDF obtained credible, real-time intelligence about his location.

The IDF emphasized that the vehicle was a civilian, unmarked one, and was not involved in transporting aid. The operation raised significant concerns regarding the potential misuse of humanitarian organizations for terrorist activities.

WCK Under Scrutiny

Following the strike, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) called for immediate clarification from international leaders and WCK regarding their employment of Qudeih. COGAT also demanded that international organizations operating in Gaza disclose the identities of their staff to ensure that terrorists are not exploiting humanitarian frameworks.

The IDF confirmed that Qudeih was not linked to any kidnapping incidents, focusing instead on his terrorist involvement and role in the horrific attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz.

WCK Responds

In response, WCK issued a statement pausing its operations in Gaza. They expressed surprise, stating they had no prior knowledge of any employee being involved in the October 7 massacre.

This incident adds to growing tensions around international humanitarian efforts in Gaza, particularly following a previous mistake in April when the IDF mistakenly struck a WCK convoy, killing seven employees. The IDF later dismissed two senior officers and censured three others after an internal investigation.