UAE Commemorates Two Years Of Humanitarian Aid Efforts In Gaza Strip

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) commemorates two years since initiating its humanitarian and relief efforts for Palestinians in Gaza, known as the "Tarahum for Gaza" initiative. Launched in October 2023, this campaign has been pivotal in providing aid to the region. The UAE has consistently engaged diplomatically on regional and international fronts, advocating for a ceasefire and rallying global support to stop Israeli aggression.

During this period, the UAE emerged as the largest humanitarian donor to Gaza, contributing 44% of the total international aid received by the Strip, according to UN data. The UAE's "Operation Chivalrous Knight" has delivered over 90,000 tonnes of aid via land, sea, and air routes until September 14th, valued at US$1.8 billion. This includes 81 airdrops under the "Birds of Goodness" initiative, delivering more than 4,076 tonnes of food and essential supplies.

In addressing hunger, the UAE established automated bakeries and operated field kitchens along with over 50 charitable soup kitchens. During Ramadan, the Emirates Red Crescent distributed 13 million Iftar meals and supported bakeries that served over 3 million people. To tackle water shortages, a 7.5-kilometre pipeline was inaugurated to transfer desalinated water from Egypt into Gaza, serving over 1 million people daily with a capacity of about 2 million gallons.

The health sector saw significant contributions from the UAE as well. The integrated UAE field hospital in Gaza has been operational since December 2023, offering medical treatment including prosthetics for amputees. Additionally, an integrated floating hospital was stationed off Egypt's Al-Arish coast to provide medical support. Under directives from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE evacuated 2,785 patients for treatment in Emirati hospitals.

The UAE welcomed increased recognition of Palestine by various countries and expressed optimism about a recent agreement on a Gaza ceasefire deal announced on Thursday. This development is seen as a positive step towards resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the UAE conducted a mass polio vaccination campaign reaching over 640,000 children in Gaza alongside shipments of medicines and medical supplies.

Efforts also included rehabilitating sewage networks and dispatching water tankers to address infrastructure needs. The UAE's commitment extended to drilling and maintaining drinking water wells across Gaza. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to ensure swift delivery of humanitarian aid without hindrance.

The UAE's comprehensive approach reflects its dedication to alleviating suffering in Gaza through sustained humanitarian assistance and diplomatic engagement aimed at fostering peace and stability in the region.

With inputs from WAM