As part of the ongoing Saudi relief airlift to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, the 81st Saudi relief plane arrived today at El Arish International Airport in the Arab Republic of Egypt. The plane carried urgent humanitarian aid, including food baskets and shelter kits, provided by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, which will be transported via the Rafah crossing to those affected within the Gaza Strip.
A critical human context and historical background
This continued support comes amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, one of the most severe crises of modern times. Since the outbreak of hostilities in October 2013, the residents of the Strip have been suffering from extremely harsh living conditions, including severe shortages of food, clean water, medicine, and shelter, in addition to the destruction of essential infrastructure. Through these ongoing efforts, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms its historically unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, a support that has never been limited to political and diplomatic backing, but has extended to include essential humanitarian and relief efforts over the decades.
The importance of aid and its expected impact
Locally in Gaza, this aid is a lifeline for the affected population. Food baskets help combat widespread hunger and malnutrition, while shelter materials provide essential protection for families who have lost their homes and are living in dire displacement conditions. Every arriving plane is a message of hope and solidarity, easing the burden of daily suffering.
Regionally, these efforts highlight the pivotal role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a force for humanitarian stability in the region and reinforce Arab solidarity in the face of crises. This air bridge also underscores the close cooperation with the Arab Republic of Egypt, which plays a vital logistical role in receiving and facilitating the passage of international aid into the Gaza Strip, making El Arish Airport and the Rafah crossing key hubs for global relief efforts.
At the international level, the continuation of the Saudi air bridge reflects the Kingdom's commitment to international humanitarian law and the principles of relief work, and provides a model of organized governmental and public support. This campaign is funded through the "Sahem" platform of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, demonstrating the solidarity of the Saudi leadership and people in supporting their brothers and sisters in Palestine. These initiatives underscore the importance of keeping humanitarian corridors open and ensuring the unimpeded delivery of aid to civilians.
