Additional Flights and Trucks Arrive in Gaza to Address Humanitarian Crisis
Washington
In an effort to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the United States has increased its aid efforts by sending additional flights and trucks to the region. Since the attacks by Hamas on October 7, Israel has sealed off the enclave, leading to severe shortages of essential supplies.
A senior administration official revealed that, following President Biden's visit to the region in October, over 2,000 trucks have already been dispatched with food, water, medical assistance, shelter supplies, and fuel. These trucks continue to arrive in Gaza each day.
Furthermore, in a significant escalation of aid efforts, additional flights have been organized to transport essential supplies to Gaza. This move aims to provide immediate relief to the Palestinian civilians who have been severely affected by the ongoing crisis.
President Biden has made it clear that while the United States supports Israel in its fight against Hamas, it remains committed to assisting Palestinian civilians with their basic needs. The increased aid efforts are part of this commitment.
The United Nations will distribute supplies provided by military flights to civilians, according to an official. As part of the humanitarian mission, field hospitals will be established in Gaza, with some already being set up in South Gaza. The supplies being delivered include vaccines, clean water, and sanitation equipment to prevent outbreaks of cholera or typhoid. Additionally, the next phase of support will involve allowing commercial goods to flow into Gaza.
President Biden previously announced $100 million in humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank. The recent pause in fighting between Hamas and Israel has resulted in the release of dozens of women and children held by Hamas, although officials clarified that the hostage release and the humanitarian aid are not connected. Notably, a 4-year-old American girl was among those released in the past few days.
An official emphasized that the assistance and fuel being provided are not linked to the hostage releases. However, they added that sustained increased levels of support are necessary once this phase of hostage releases concludes.
