The April 1st bombing which cost the life of a Palestinian and seven foreign workers humanitarian non-governmental organization, in the Gaza Strip was the result of “serious” errors and omissions by the Israeli military, says an Australian government investigation released today.

The inquiry, commissioned by former Australian air chief Mark Binskin, was ordered by Canberra after a series of three airstrikes killed Australian national Lalzomi “Zomi” Francom, 43. The remaining victims were three Britons, an American-Canadian, a Pole and the group’s Palestinian guide and interpreter.

The seven victims worked for the American NGO World Central Kitchen (WCK), founded by the famous Spanish chef Jose Andres.

The Israeli army admitted that there were a series of “errors” at various levels.

The attack was not “on purpose”, or “deliberately” against the WCK, according to the finding, which recalls that an internal investigation by the Israeli armed forces concluded that a “serious error resulting from misrecognition, errors in decision-making and violations of rules of engagement and standard operating procedures” had been committed. .

According to the document, the Israeli military thought the aid convoy was carrying Hamas fighters because an armed guard working for the WCK could be seen on the roof of one of the cars.

“In this incident it appears that the control mechanisms of Israel’s armed forces failed, which led to errors in decision-making and mistaken recognition.”

The most important mistake was not reading the route that the WCK staff would follow: it had been submitted to the Israeli army in advance and had been approved.

The Israeli armed forces did not realize their mistake until information and visuals began circulating on social media sites about an hour after the bombing, according to the findings.

Beyond the litany of violations of business rules, Mr. Binskin’s finding notes that the response was “appropriate.” Two officers were relieved of their duties and three others were reprimanded, the statement said.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called on Israel to apologise, insisting her government will continue to press for those responsible to be held fully accountable for their actions, without ruling out the possibility of criminal charges.

“The Australian government will insist until aid workers are properly protected,” he told reporters. “The best protection for aid workers and civilians is a ceasefire,” Ms Wong added.