Two Refugee Workers from New Zealand Charity ReliefAid Killed in Gaza Strip

Accident – Death – Obituary News : New Zealand Charity Loses Two Employees in Gaza Strip Missile Strike

A prominent New Zealand charity that offers aid to war-torn nations has been devastated by the loss of two of its refugee employees in the Gaza Strip. ReliefAid, founded by Mike Seawright, has been actively involved in distributing food and water in Gaza, with local Gazan workers at the forefront of these efforts. However, tragedy struck when two ReliefAid members, identified as Mohammad and Mahmoud, were killed in a missile strike on their homes in the Jabalia refugee camp.

The charity released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Mohammad and Mahmoud, emphasizing that they were innocent aid workers who were solely focused on ensuring the safety of their families and delivering aid to those in need. Despite the grief, the remaining ReliefAid team in Gaza remains resolute in their commitment to provide lifesaving assistance to vulnerable families who have nowhere else to turn.

In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, ReliefAid is calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire by all parties involved in the conflict. The charity believes that the current four-hour military pauses are insufficient and insists on the adherence to international laws. The loss of innocent lives, as exemplified by the tragic deaths of Mohammad and Mahmoud, highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict that respects the rights and safety of all civilians.

Mike Seawright, the founder and CEO of ReliefAid, spoke of the incredible bravery displayed by the organization’s teams operating within Gaza. He emphasized the immense danger they face daily while delivering aid in a volatile environment. These dedicated workers not only worry about the safety of their own homes and families, but also confront the constant uncertainty of whether they will live to see another day.

Seawright also shed light on the dire situation in Gaza, where approximately 45% of homes have been damaged or destroyed. He described the widespread destruction as a tragedy that disproportionately affects families, civilians, and children. According to Seawright, both sides of the conflict have failed to prioritize the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

ReliefAid has managed to overcome the challenges posed by the overcrowded and debris-ridden Rafah border crossing by providing financial assistance directly to Gaza. This approach has allowed the charity to purchase and distribute essential supplies, including food and water. Seawright acknowledged that ReliefAid is already engaged in humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, Syria, and earthquake-hit western Afghanistan. However, upon learning of the dire situation in Gaza, the organization felt compelled to extend its assistance to the region.

Despite operating in some of the most challenging environments, ReliefAid teams continue to exhibit unwavering dedication and selflessness. Seawright praised their commitment to service and their ability to prioritize the needs of others above their own safety. He emphasized that by purchasing supplies within Gaza itself, where food is available but inaccessible to many, ReliefAid can rapidly deliver aid to families in urgent need.

The loss of Mohammad and Mahmoud serves as a stark reminder of the devastating toll war takes on innocent lives. ReliefAid’s call for an immediate ceasefire and adherence to international laws aims to protect innocent civilians caught up in conflicts not of their making. As the charity mourns the loss of its colleagues and friends, it remains determined to carry on its vital work, providing critical support to those who have been left with nowhere else to turn..