US President Joe Biden announced on Friday that the first aid shipment has successfully reached the Gaza Strip via a newly established multinational humanitarian pier. This initial delivery, facilitated by the collaborative efforts of CENTCOM, USAID, and the State Department, marks a significant step in addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. The aid shipment includes 170 metric tons of nutrient-rich food bars, designed to support 11,000 vulnerable children and adults. Additionally, the shipment contains ready-to-use therapeutic foods and essential supplies to provide shelter, clean water, and hygiene support to over 33,000 individuals in Gaza. President Biden highlighted the continuous arrival of aid from the US and other countries to Cyprus, where it is prepared for shipment to Gaza. He emphasized the critical need to expedite these humanitarian efforts to reach those most in need amidst the devastating conditions faced by the Palestinian population. "The Palestinian people are suffering. The need to get increased aid to the most vulnerable is urgent," Biden stated. He also mentioned ongoing collaboration with Israel to enhance the flow of aid into Gaza through land routes, reaffirming a commitment to intensify humanitarian actions in response to the crisis. This announcement comes in the context of an intense conflict in Gaza following an attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction. — Agencies
