A second ship loaded with aid for Gaza could depart as early as Saturday, according to Cyprus. The first vessel, named Jennifer, successfully delivered its cargo to the war-ravaged territory and has now returned.
The maritime aid corridor from Cyprus aims to address the
stark shortages in Gaza after more than five months of war, with UN agencies
warning of a looming famine.
The second ship, carrying food aid, is expected to
carry 240 tonnes of supplies, including pallets of canned goods, beans, carrots, canned
tuna, chickpeas, canned corn, parboiled rice, flour, oil,
and salt. Additionally, it will include a forklift and a crane to
assist with deliveries. The United Arab Emirates has also sent a special
load of 120 kilograms of fresh dates.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, prompting
donors to explore alternatives such as airdrops and maritime shipments. World
Central Kitchen, which orchestrated the aid delivery, built a makeshift jetty
southwest of Gaza City to receive the first shipment. US troops are on their
way to construct a larger pier for future deliveries.
The Israeli military secured the area around the jetty
during unloading and inspected the cargo before delivery. World Central
Kitchen founder Jose Andres emphasized that the initial shipment was a test,
expressing the potential to bring thousands of tonnes each week.
The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s attack on southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. As efforts continue to alleviate the crisis, the aid corridor from Cyprus represents a crucial lifeline for those in need.