The conclusions of the Binskin report into the Israeli drone strike that killed seven aid workers of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) humanitarian food convoy on 1 April, including Australian Zomi Frankcom, have been released publicly.
Critics will assess the report as a failure which further entrenches impunity for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Binskin ultimately agrees with the Israeli military’s own assessment, concluding that the convoy “was not knowingly or deliberately directed” and that there was a significant break down in Israel’s targeting procedures. The report fails to provide meaningful recommendations for accountability and redress.
Retired Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, the former chief of the Australian Defence Force, was appointed by the Albanese government as a special adviser and tasked with (among other things) examining the measures Israel has taken to hold those responsible to account and determining whether further investigation is warranted. The foreign minister, Penny Wong, noted that Binskin would provide advice to the Australian government about further actions that could be taken to ensure a full and transparent investigation. The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, and Wong had emphasised that the Australian government expected “full accountability” for these deaths. ….more