In the wake of a controversial Gaza aid initiative backed by U.S. and Israeli interests, former World Central Kitchen CEO Nate Mook stated he was never involved, distancing the nonprofit from the disputed program. This clarifies WCK’s commitment to humanitarian principles amid a polarized aid landscape.

On December 11, 2024, World Central Kitchen dismissed 62 Gaza-based employees—over 10% of its local workforce—following Israeli security officials’ allegations of terrorism links and demands for a review. The internal message noted that the decision was made to 'protect our team and our operations,' raising concerns over due process and the rights of local workers amid politically charged pressures.

Following a fatal strike on its Gaza aid convoy that killed seven workers, José Andrés of World Central Kitchen engaged directly with President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, pressuring both to make policy concessions and improve aid delivery protocols. This political engagement aimed at addressing accountability and reducing civilian harm in conflict zones.

Following an IDF air strike in Gaza that resulted in the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen team members, the organization strongly condemned the attack and demanded that governments conduct an independent third‐party investigation into whether the strike was intentional or violated international law. The statement underscored the broader threat to humanitarian workers and a call for accountability in conflict zones.

World Central Kitchen suffered the tragic loss of seven workers in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, disrupting crucial food aid efforts. The organization, with backing from the UAE and strong public political engagement by founder José Andrés, has been vocally critical of the Israeli military's tactics, calling for an end to the indiscriminate killing and restrictions on humanitarian aid.

Following the tragic killing of seven humanitarian workers in Gaza, World Central Kitchen suspended its operations in the region to ensure the safety of its staff and reaffirm its commitment to worker rights and human dignity.

On April 1, 2024, a humanitarian relief convoy operated by World Central Kitchen was struck by the Israeli military in Gaza, resulting in the tragic loss of seven foreign aid workers. The incident highlights the risks faced by organizations delivering critical aid in conflict zones and underscores the company's commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.