ABU DHABI: In a significant development, Israel and the United Arab Emirates have reached an agreement to allow the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid from the UAE to the Gaza Strip.
The first phase of aid aims to assist around 15,000 civilians, delivering essential food supplies, operating support for local bakeries, and vital infant care products.
The deal comes amid a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, worsened by a renewed Israeli military campaign. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel intends to "take control of all" of Gaza, intensifying pressure on the already devastated region.
Since March 2, Israel has enforced a strict blockade on humanitarian aid, despite warnings from international organisations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organisation.
While Israel argues the blockade is a strategy to pressure Hamas, international leaders have sounded the alarm over the dire humanitarian toll.
Human rights groups and global bodies have reported that nearly two million residents in Gaza are facing starvation, while large quantities of food and medical supplies remain stranded at the border, just minutes away from those in need.
This agreement between the UAE and Israel is seen as an important step to begin easing the crisis and getting life-saving supplies to the people of Gaza.
