**Australia 'Outraged' After Israel's Decision Not to Prosecute Over Killing of Aid Worker in Gaza**
Australia's Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has expressed her deep outrage following the Israeli government's decision not to prosecute those responsible for the death of Zomi Frankcom, an Australian aid worker. Frankcom, who was affiliated with the humanitarian organization World Central Kitchen, was killed alongside six colleagues during an Israeli airstrike in Gaza in April 2024.
In a statement released on Thursday, Wong criticized the Israeli decision as falling "far short of the accountability we expect." She emphasized that the Australian government had been informed of this decision late on Wednesday night, which she deemed particularly offensive as it coincided with World Humanitarian Day.
Wong highlighted that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had acknowledged that the strikes on Frankcom and her colleagues' vehicles resulted from significant procedural failures, including mistaken identification and errors in decision-making. Despite this admission, the lack of accountability for the incident has prompted strong reactions from the Australian government.
In her statement, Wong reiterated Australia's commitment to seeking justice for Frankcom and her colleagues. She announced plans to call in Hillel Newman, Israel's Ambassador to Australia, to discuss the matter directly and has instructed Australia's Ambassador to Israel to communicate the government's position to Israeli officials.
The tragic death of Zomi Frankcom has raised concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers operating in conflict zones and the need for accountability in military operations. Wong's comments reflect a broader sentiment within Australia regarding the protection of aid workers and the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law.
As the situation develops, the Australian government is expected to continue its diplomatic efforts to address the concerns raised by Frankcom's death and to advocate for the safety of humanitarian workers in conflict areas.