Special Adviser Assigned to Investigate Israel’s Inquiry Into the Death of Gaza Humanitarian Worker
A special adviser Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin has been appointed to engage with Israel.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has appointed Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin to investigate Israel’s response to the tragic death of Australian Zomi Frankcom in Gaza.
This development follows the six-month anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, resulting in the loss of over 1,200 lives.
More than 250 Israelis and foreign hostages were taken by Hamas, with around 130 still unaccounted for.
In early April, the Australian government was horrified by the loss of Australian aid worker Ms. Frankcom and six other foreign aid workers in an Israeli airstrike.
As stated by Ms. Wong, Air Chief Marshal Binskin will engage with Israel and the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) regarding the incident that led to the death of Zomi Frankcom and her fellow aid workers.
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The Special Adviser will advise the Australian government on further steps that can be taken to ensure a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable for the deaths,” Ms. Wong explained.
Mr. Binskin, former chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) from 2014 to 2018, will focus on evaluating IDF policies and procedures in operational incidents and ensuring accountability to prevent similar tragedies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has characterized the Gaza airstrike as unintentional and committed to conducting an investigation.
PM Not Satisfied Yet with Israel Investigation
However, Mr. Albanese expressed on April 8 that the government remains dissatisfied with Israel’s investigation, emphasizing the need for full transparency and accountability.
The Australian government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all evidence is preserved and actions are taken in accordance with the law.
The prime minister stressed the importance of Israel’s cooperation with the investigation, stating that Mr. Binskin will have the government’s full support.
‘Unlike Hamas, Israel Does Have Processes’: Opposition
Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Birmingham supports a thorough investigation into the incident and expects complete transparency from Israel.
He noted that unlike Hamas, Israel follows investigative processes and has been transparent in its actions.
Mr. Birmingham highlighted the tragic loss of Zomi Frankcom and her colleagues, emphasizing the need for understanding and prevention of similar incidents in the future.
Netanyahu Committed To Ensuring Humanitarian Aid Reaches Gaza
Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed deep regret over the incident and pledged to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“Our investigation findings will be made public as we remain committed to ensuring humanitarian aid reaches the people of Gaza,” Mr. Netanyahu assured.
