The family of James Kirby, a British aid worker killed in an Israeli attack on Gaza, have been left “heartbroken” by his death.

British Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron today called on Israel to launch an investigation “as quickly as possible” into the attack that killed three British aid workers in Gaza.

three British aid worker killed by Israeli airstrike in Gaza – The Israel Defense Forces called it a “serious mistake.”

John Chapman, James Kirby and James Henderson are among them Seven World Central Kitchen volunteers die After the convoy they were traveling in was hit.

Middle East latest: Israel admits ‘mistake’

A statement from Mr Kirby’s family said: “As a family we are devastated by the loss of our beloved James.

“Like the six other people who tragically lost their lives, he will be remembered as a hero.

“James knows the dangers of venturing into Gaza from his time in the British Armed Forces, where he served bravely in Bosnia and Afghanistan.

“Despite the risks, his compassionate nature drove him to provide help to those in dire need.

“James was a true gentleman who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, even in the face of senseless violence.

“We ask that you please respect our privacy at this extremely difficult time as we mourn the passing of our dear James.”

“We should also express our condolences to their families and our thoughts should be with them,” Lord Cameron told a Nato meeting in Brussels.

He added: “I welcome what the Israeli foreign minister told me yesterday about a full, urgent and transparent investigation into how this horrific incident was allowed to happen, and we hope to see that happen soon.”

“I also welcome his talk of sending more aid to Gaza, up to 500 trucks a day.

“It’s important, we’ve had these commitments before and they really need to be delivered, including extending the opening hours of key crossings.

“But, of course, additional aid is not going to work unless there is proper deconfliction, unless aid can be delivered around Gaza and we avoid the horrific events we have seen over the past few days.

“This is vital and the UK will be watching closely to ensure this happens.”

Australian Lalzawmi ‘Zomi’ Frankcom was also killed in the attack, along with Palestinian national Saifeddin Issam Ayad Abutaha, Polish national Damian Sobol and dual US-Canadian national Jacob F. Jacob Flickinger.

The three British citizens were part of the charity workers’ security team.

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After the incident, the Liberal Democrats called on the UK to suspend arms deals with Israel.

Party leader Sir Ed Davey said: “Obviously the idea that British-made weapons could be used in such an attack is completely unacceptable.

“The government must act quickly to suspend arms exports to Israel. We must redouble our efforts to ensure an immediate bilateral ceasefire.”

Labour’s shadow treasurer told Sky News this morning: “Aid workers must be protected. They should not be killed in these ways.

“That’s why answers need to be given to how this happened in the first place. That’s the least that should be given to the family.”