Australia Condemns Israel’s Decision to Close Investigation into Zomi Frankcom’s Death

The Australian Government has strongly condemned Israel’s decision not to pursue criminal proceedings over the 2024 killing of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom and six of her World Central Kitchen colleagues in Gaza.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia was “outraged” by the decision, which was announced by Israel on World Humanitarian Day. She said the timing was particularly hurtful to Frankcom’s family, humanitarian workers and Australians.

Frankcom and six other aid workers were killed on April 1, 2024, when their World Central Kitchen convoy was struck by Israeli military drones in Gaza. The Israeli military previously acknowledged serious failures, including mistaken identification and errors in decision-making.

However, Israel has now decided not to pursue criminal proceedings, concluding that there was no criminal misconduct.

Wong said the decision fell “far short” of the level of accountability expected by Australia.

“Zomi represented the best of Australia. Her courage deserves to be celebrated. Her family deserves justice,” Wong said in her statement.

The Australian Government has also questioned the adequacy of Israel’s investigation and has continued to press for accountability. Wong said Australia would not stop seeking justice for Frankcom and her colleagues.

The decision has further strained relations between Australia and Israel. Wong described the current diplomatic relationship as a “difficult time” and summoned Israel’s ambassador to Australia for an explanation.

Frankcom’s family has also expressed disappointment and called for greater transparency and an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The Australian Government has indicated it will continue discussions with Frankcom’s family and pursue avenues for justice and accountability.