The United Kingdom announced on Wednesday that its first shipment of humanitarian aid, amounting to approximately 100 tons, has departed from Cyprus and is expected to reach Gaza via a newly constructed floating port by the US military, set to become operational soon.
In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said the British aid has left Cyprus in the first delivery to the new floating port in Gaza.
This initiative follows an announcement by the Pentagon on Tuesday, stating that the floating port, assembled to facilitate the delivery of aid to the region, will be ready “in the coming days.”
The shipment includes nearly 100 tons of aid, notably “8,400 units” of temporary shelters made from plastic sheeting.
The British Foreign Office emphasized that the aid will be distributed in Gaza “as quickly as possible.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating that today marks the departure of the first British aid shipment, “an important moment” in increasing the flow of aid to Gaza.
He acknowledged the need for more aid, particularly via land routes, and assured that Britain will continue its efforts to open more channels for aid delivery to the region.
London emphasizes that the operation of this maritime route does not replace the need for land-based aid deliveries, which are considered the most efficient method to support Gaza’s residents.
The British government is urging Israel to fulfill its commitment to allowing at least 500 aid trucks into Gaza daily.
This development underscores the international community’s ongoing efforts to provide much-needed humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza amidst ongoing challenges.
