In a recent discussion on the “Niran Sadiqa” program aired on Oman TV, Sultan Al-Shamsi, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organizations and Deputy President of the UAE International Aid Agency, highlighted the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip. Al-Shamsi emphasized that the UAE, alongside Jordan and several friendly nations, has established a humanitarian alliance to conduct aerial drops of aid, particularly targeting inaccessible northern regions of Gaza. The overarching aim of these efforts is to ensure the continuous delivery of vital assistance, with a significant focus on ground support for the area.
Commitment to Humanitarian Aid
During the phone interview, Al-Shamsi shared that the UAE has been proactive in enhancing its humanitarian and relief operations in Gaza since the onset of the conflict. This initiative aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, aimed at supporting the people of Gaza amid the challenging circumstances they face. Alongside escalating humanitarian support, the UAE remains engaged in political and diplomatic endeavors to halt the hostilities.
Strategic Aid Delivery
Al-Shamsi elaborated on the various modalities through which the UAE provides information and resources, whether by land, sea, or air, to guarantee that aid reaches those most in need. Notably, regarding the 80th aerial drop, he stated, “We managed to deliver 90,000 tons of assistance, with over 4,000 tons being dropped. This is clear evidence of the UAE’s ongoing commitment to support the region, in coordination with all partners, especially Jordan.”
Upcoming Aid Shipment
Concerning the ninth Hamdan ship, Al-Shamsi remarked that the vessel is set to arrive soon at Al-Arish, carrying over 7,000 tons of varied aid to assist the residents of Gaza. It is significant to note that the UAE has already deployed 18 ships as part of its relief efforts for the region.
Ongoing Initiatives for Support
The UAE’s initiatives and projects fall under the “Brave Knight 3” operation, aimed at assisting Gaza’s population. According to Al-Shamsi, “We hope that the aid will alleviate the dire humanitarian conditions faced by our people in both northern and southern regions. The humanitarian situation is extremely challenging, with frequent displacement occurring in multiple areas. There is a pressing need for sustained and substantial aid to alleviate these conditions, particularly for the most vulnerable groups such as children and women. The UAE is diligently working toward this goal.”