Nicosia, Cyprus – The United Arab Emirates reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to aiding the Palestinian people, particularly those in war-torn Gaza. Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, the UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, reiterated this stance at a ministerial conference on the Gaza Strip’s humanitarian maritime corridor.
Al Hashimy emphasized the UAE’s dedication to working with international partners to ensure swift and efficient delivery of aid to Gaza’s most vulnerable civilians. She advocated for activating a maritime corridor, which would act as a vital lifeline for Gazans, particularly those in the north, by expediting the delivery of essential supplies. This corridor would complement existing land crossings.
The UAE’s humanitarian efforts include a historic first shipment of 200 tonnes of food aid to northern Gaza, undertaken in collaboration with the World Central Kitchen. Al Hashimy pledged continued efforts to strengthen these initiatives and ensure aid reaches those most in need.
She underscored the need for a long-term ceasefire, a clear plan for resuming political dialogue, and a two-state solution leading to an independent Palestinian state, as crucial steps towards resolving the crisis.
The UAE’s significant contributions include “Operation Gallant Knight 3,” delivering over 25,000 tonnes of aid via ships, aircraft, and trucks. Additionally, they established a field hospital in Gaza, deployed a hospital ship to Al-Arish, Egypt, and treated hundreds of patients in UAE hospitals under an initiative to provide care for 1,000 wounded Gaza children and 1,000 cancer patients. Finally, the UAE has addressed water shortages by establishing desalination plants producing 1.2 million gallons per day.