UAE Sends Over 60,000 Tonnes of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Amid Ongoing Crisis
Through Operation Gallant Knight 3, the UAE has emerged as a leading force in delivering essential supplies to Gaza's beleaguered population.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly escalated its humanitarian efforts in Gaza, providing more than 60,000 tonnes of aid through Operation Gallant Knight 3. This initiative accounts for over 50% of the international humanitarian relief efforts to the region, underscoring the UAE's commitment to supporting the Palestinian population during a period of considerable distress.
Hamoud Saeed Al Afari, Relief Operations Coordinator for Operation Gallant Knight 3, reported that the total expenditure for the operation has reached approximately $1.2 billion.
He highlighted the UAE's essential role in coordinating rapid response aid through ten main warehouses located in El Arish, Egypt.
These warehouses facilitate the storage and distribution of humanitarian supplies to the areas most in need.
As part of this extensive aid operation, humanitarian aircraft have been dispatched from Ras Al Khaimah Airport, delivering 32 tonnes of food supplies specifically catered to the needs of the population during Ramadan.
Dr. Khaled Al Khaja, Secretary-General of the International Humanitarian Charity Organisation, noted that these missions are designed to provide essential food packages, particularly for the holy month.
Additionally, the UAE has established a field hospital within Gaza, staffed by Emirati medical teams and volunteers.
Since its inception, the hospital has treated over 50,489 patients and performed approximately 1,228 surgeries, addressing a wide range of medical needs.
This facility operates 24/7 and is committed to delivering healthcare to the local population amid ongoing challenges.
The UAE's medical support extends beyond just the field hospital.
The nation has also donated 17 ambulances, set up 44 community kitchens, and established nine bakeries to ensure the availability of essential food supplies.
In response to an acute water crisis, six desalination plants have been constructed, enhancing access to clean water for residents.
In total, the UAE has facilitated over 580 air sorties and dispatched 14 ships as part of its humanitarian logistics.
Under Operation Gallant Knight 3, these efforts have resulted in the transportation of more than 60,000 tonnes of food, medicine, and supplies necessary for shelter and care for the afflicted population.
Further, the UAE has engaged in a series of aerial drop missions, dubbed 'Operation Birds of Goodness,' which have included 53 successful missions that have air-dropped over 3,700 tonnes of humanitarian supplies.
Since the commencement of Operation Gallant Knight 3, more than 3,412 truckloads of aid have reached Gaza.
The UAE's commitment extends to establishing a floating hospital in El Arish, which has treated over 9,661 cases, conducting 2,936 surgeries across various complexities.
This floating facility serves as an additional resource to support patients and alleviate the medical burden within the community.
The initiative underscores the UAE's broader humanitarian principles and its intention to play a pivotal role in alleviating suffering and supporting healthcare and essential services in Gaza.
The ongoing operations are a testament to a national policy focused on humanitarian assistance and global outreach.