The UK's largest aid delivery to Gaza has entered the enclave, the British Foreign Office announced on Wednesday. This significant delivery, consisting of more than 2,000 tonnes of food aid, arrived in Gaza via the Jordanian land corridor. The aid is being distributed by the World Food Programme and is expected to benefit over 275,000 people in need.
The aid package includes essential items such as fortified wheat flour for bakeries, hot meals, and Ready To Eat (RTE) food parcels. Each food parcel, designed for a family of five, contains canned vegetables, meat, fish, and date bars. These parcels are capable of meeting half of a family's daily calorie requirements for 15 days, providing crucial sustenance during this challenging time.
In addition to the food aid, a previous shipment of 150 tonnes of UK-funded relief items, including blankets and tents, has also been delivered to Gaza. These items will be distributed by UNICEF to further support the local population.
Furthermore, a UK field hospital operated by UK-Med has arrived in Gaza and is now operational, offering vital medical care to those in need. This medical facility is playing a crucial role in providing life-saving assistance to the community.
The delivery of aid comes at a critical juncture as warnings of imminent famine among Palestinians have been issued. Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasized the UK's ongoing efforts to urge Israel to increase the number and duration of open crossings, as well as to restore essential services such as healthcare, water, and sanitation in Gaza.
Cameron specifically called for the opening of a land crossing in the north and the facilitation of more UN staff entry to enhance the delivery of aid and address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UK remains committed to supporting the people of Gaza during this challenging period and continues to advocate for increased humanitarian assistance in the region.
