In a significant humanitarian effort, UK aid has been successfully delivered to the Gaza shore today, marking the first delivery across the US-built temporary pier. The aid, including shelter coverage kits, arrived alongside contributions from the US and UAE, with more UK aid scheduled to follow in the coming weeks.
The shipment, comprising the first of 8,400 shelter coverage kits, marks a critical milestone in international efforts to provide much-needed support to the people of Gaza. This delivery, facilitated through the Cyprus maritime corridor, underscores the collaborative efforts of various nations to address the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised the joint international effort, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the armed forces and partner organizations in delivering essential aid to those in need. He emphasized the need for continued support and urged the opening of additional land routes, including via the Rafah crossing, to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of aid to civilians.
Foreign Secretary David Cameron echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of maximizing aid delivery into Gaza through various channels. While emphasizing the significance of the maritime corridor, Cameron stressed the continued importance of land routes in meeting the urgent humanitarian needs of the Gazan population.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized the operational significance of the newly established pier, which will facilitate the transportation of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in dire need. Shapps underscored the UK’s commitment to supporting logistics coordination and providing aid for delivery through its contributions to the initiative.
The Joint Logistics Over the Shore (JLOTS) pier, constructed by the US Navy and Army, is expected to significantly enhance aid delivery capabilities, with the potential to facilitate up to 150 truckloads of aid into Gaza daily once fully operational.
The UK’s substantial contribution to the Cyprus maritime corridor includes financial support, shelter coverage kits, family tents, hygiene kits, forklift trucks, and logistics assistance. The Ministry of Defence’s provision of accommodation aboard RFA Cardigan Bay for US military personnel further underscores the UK’s commitment to the initiative.
While the maritime corridor represents a vital channel for aid delivery, the UK reaffirms that it is not a substitute for land routes. The government continues to call on Israel to fulfill its commitment to allow the passage of aid trucks through land crossings, emphasizing the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The successful delivery of UK aid to the Gaza shore underscores the collective resolve of the international community to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan people and provide essential support during this critical time.
