Morocco Sends Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Through Israeli Airport
Morocco has taken a significant step in providing aid to the war-battered territory of Gaza by sending 40 tons of humanitarian supplies via an Israeli airport. This move marks a new route for aid delivery into Gaza, diversifying the traditional methods of assistance.
The food aid was transported to Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv before being transferred to the Palestinian Red Crescent at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza. According to a diplomatic source, Morocco is the first country to transport its humanitarian aid through this unprecedented land route. This initiative comes as a response to the urgent need for assistance in Gaza, which has been under siege following the outbreak of war on October 7.
The ongoing conflict has led to a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the United Nations warning of a looming famine. Aid trucks have typically entered the territory through Egypt, but the Moroccan decision to use an Israeli airport for aid delivery showcases a new approach to providing support to the people of Gaza.
Morocco’s ties with Israel, formalized through a normalization pact brokered by the United States in 2020, played a crucial role in facilitating this aid operation. The diplomatic source emphasized that Morocco’s relationship with Israel is aimed at promoting peace in the region and serving the interests of the Palestinians.
In addition to Morocco’s efforts, other initiatives are also underway to provide relief to Gaza. A Spanish charity boat carrying 200 tons of food aid set sail from Cyprus with the goal of establishing a maritime corridor for aid delivery. Furthermore, four US Army vessels departed from the United States carrying equipment to build a temporary port on Gaza’s shores to facilitate aid deliveries.
The conflict that began with an attack on October 7 has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. According to official figures, approximately 1,160 people, mostly civilians, have died in Israel as a result of the conflict. In contrast, Gaza has seen a much higher death toll, with 31,184 people, predominantly women and children, losing their lives due to Israeli bombardment and ground offensive.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, international efforts to provide aid and support to the affected population are crucial. Morocco’s decision to send humanitarian supplies through an Israeli airport demonstrates a commitment to finding innovative solutions to deliver much-needed assistance to those in need. By diversifying aid routes and leveraging diplomatic relationships, countries can play a significant role in alleviating the suffering of the people of Gaza and promoting peace in the region.