Cairo provides over 70% of aid to Gaza
Egypt reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and people. A video published on the official page of the armed forces’ military spokesman highlighted the ongoing relief efforts that have been underway since October 21, 2023.
Led by the armed forces, these efforts have seen El Arish International Airport receive 1,022 aircraft carrying 27,247 tonnes of aid, while 32 ships have delivered 74,779 tonnes of relief supplies via El Arish Port.
According to the video, aid trucks travel from Egypt to the Rafah border crossing. From there, they head south to the Al-Auja crossing and then on to the Nitzana crossing for inspection, a process that takes between 18 and 24 hours. The trucks then return to the Rafah crossing to enter Gaza via the Palestinian Red Crescent, while UNRWA trucks use the Kerem Abu salem crossing.
However, after Israel took control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing on May 7, 2024, this vital lifeline was cut off. The crossing was reportedly destroyed, and trucks were unable to enter from the Israeli side to reach the Palestinians.
Despite these Israeli restrictions, which have been confirmed by numerous countries, humanitarian organisations, the UN Secretary-General, and over 100 non-governmental relief organisations, Egypt has continued to support Palestinians through aid airdrops and the Kerem Abu salem crossing.
Since the beginning of the crisis, Egypt has facilitated the entry of over 70 per cent of the total aid—approximately 45,125 trucks carrying 500,000 tonnes of medical and food supplies. This includes 368,000 tonnes from Egypt and 132,000 tonnes from other countries.
Furthermore, Egypt has also provided 209 ambulances and 31,380 tonnes of fuel. Additionally, the country has conducted 168 airdrops, delivering 3,730 tonnes of aid, and has received 18,560 injured Palestinians and their companions for treatment in Egyptian hospitals.
From July 27 to August 14 (Thursday), 1,341 trucks entered Gaza through the Kerem Abu salem crossing. However, due to the closure of the Rafah crossing on the Israeli side, over 5,000 humanitarian aid trucks, along with 25 airdrops carrying 24 tonnes of aid, are currently waiting in Egypt.
