The 80th Saudi plane carrying aid to Gaza arrives via El Arish Airport

The 80th Saudi plane carrying aid to Gaza arrives via El Arish Airport

26.01.2026
6 mins read
The 80th Saudi relief plane arrives at Al-Arish Airport in Egypt, carrying food baskets and shelter bags as part of the Saudi air bridge to aid the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

Continuing Saudi Arabia's humanitarian efforts, the 80th Saudi relief plane, operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, arrived at El Arish International Airport in Egypt. This flight is part of the ongoing Saudi air bridge to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and was coordinated with the Ministry of Defense and the Saudi Embassy in Cairo to ensure the smooth delivery of aid.

The plane is carrying a new shipment of essential aid, including complete food baskets and equipped shelter kits —items carefully selected to meet the urgent needs of the affected population. This shipment is scheduled to be transported through the Rafah crossing to Palestinians inside the Gaza Strip, helping to alleviate the harsh living conditions they face.

worsening humanitarian situation

This support comes amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip since the recent conflict, which has displaced hundreds of thousands of residents and caused widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes. International organizations have repeatedly warned of the risks of famine and disease outbreaks due to severe shortages of food, clean water, shelter, and medical services. The Saudi air bridge, which began operating in November 2023, represents a direct and ongoing response to this crisis and reflects the Kingdom's longstanding commitment to standing with the Palestinian people in their time of need.

The importance and impact of aid

This aid is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally , it directly contributes to alleviating the suffering of Palestinian families, with food supplies providing temporary food security, while shelter materials help provide housing for displaced people who have lost their homes. Regionally , the continued airlift underscores the pivotal role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a key supporter of regional stability and a leader in humanitarian action, and highlights the vital role of the Arab Republic of Egypt as a primary gateway for international aid to reach the Gaza Strip. Internationally , this effort reflects the Kingdom's commitment to international conventions and international humanitarian law, and demonstrates its active role in responding to global crises.

The arrival of the 80th plane reflects the continuity and steadfastness of the Saudi position in support of the Palestinian people. It is part of a broad popular campaign launched by the King Salman Relief Center through the “Sahem” platform, which witnessed generous donations from citizens and residents in the Kingdom, embodying the cohesion of the leadership and the people in supporting just humanitarian causes.

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