UAE's First Humanitarian Aid Ship Reaches Gaza Through Cyprus-Gaza Maritime Corridor

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made a significant humanitarian gesture by dispatching the first ship loaded with 200 tonnes of food and relief supplies to the Gaza Strip. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort involving the UAE, World Central Kitchen (WCK), and the Republic of Cyprus, utilizing a maritime corridor from Larnaca Port in Cyprus directly to Gaza. This operation underscores the UAE's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people amidst their current challenges.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) highlighted this achievement as a testament to the UAE's dedication to mobilizing resources and partnerships to ensure the successful delivery of aid to those in need in northern Gaza. The ministry praised the crucial roles played by Cyprus, World Central Kitchen, and other international partners in enhancing the humanitarian response in the area.

Addressing the dire situation in Gaza, the MoFA stressed the importance of a unified international strategy to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians. The ministry called for immediate action to guarantee the safe, unhindered, and sustainable provision of humanitarian assistance. It reaffirmed that establishing the "Amalthea" maritime corridor is part of a broader effort to increase the flow of humanitarian aid and commercial goods into Gaza through all available channels.

In its unwavering support for the Palestinian people, the UAE has contributed significantly beyond this latest shipment. To date, it has delivered 21,000 tonnes of essential supplies, including food, water, and medical items, through various means: 213 flights, 8 airdrops, 946 trucks, and two ships. Moreover, the UAE has launched several sustainable relief projects and provided medical assistance through a field hospital in southern Gaza and a floating hospital near Egypt’s Al-Arish Port.

This comprehensive approach not only demonstrates the UAE's solidarity with Palestine but also its innovative use of logistics and international partnerships to address urgent humanitarian needs. The collaboration with Cyprus and World Central Kitchen in establishing a maritime corridor is a clear example of how nations can work together to support communities in crisis.

With inputs from WAM