The first picture has been released of one of the British aid workers killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza.
James Kirby, a military veteran who is believed to be a former member of Britain’s special forces, was among seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers killed in strikes by the Israel Defense Forces on Monday.
The 47-year-old former Army sniper marksman worked in the charity’s security team and died alongside fellow British military veterans John Chapman, 57, and James “Jim” Henderson, 33.
In a statement to the BBC, Mr Kirby’s family said: “Alongside the other six individuals who tragically lost their lives, he will be remembered as a hero.
“James understood the dangers of venturing into Gaza, drawing from his experiences in the British armed forces, where he bravely served tours in Bosnia and Afghanistan.
“Despite the risks, his compassionate nature drove him to offer assistance to those in dire need.
“A genuine gentleman, James was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, even in the face of senseless violence.
“James lost his life trying to save others, he will never know what a void he has left, our family will never be the same.”
They added they are “incredibly proud of who James was and what he achieved”.
