James Kirby: Family of British aid worker killed by Israel in Gaza 'heartbroken'

The family of James Kirby, the British aid worker killed in Israel’s attack on Gaza, say they are “completely heartbroken” by his death – with Rishi Sunak warning that the situation in the Middle East is “increasingly difficult” tolerate”.

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

John Chapman, James Henderson and James Kirby 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 heartbroken at 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.”

Speaking to The Sun about his conversations with Benjamin Netanyahu, Sunak said: “I spoke to Prime Minister Netanyahu last night and made it clear to him that the situation “It is becoming increasingly intolerable and what we urgently need to see is a transparent investigation into what happened.” There has also been a sharp increase in the amount of aid coming into Gaza – removing barriers – and more dialogue with aid agencies. Work closely to ensure something like this never happens again. “

British Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said when attending a NATO meeting in Brussels that he had expressed his “condolences” to the families of the victims and “our thoughts should be with them.”

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.”

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.

After tragedy, Lib Dems call on UK to Suspension of 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 administration must act quickly to suspend arms exports to Israel. We must redouble our efforts to ensure an immediate bilateral ceasefire.”

Darren Jones, Labour’s shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, 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.”