Humanitarian Relief Flies Into Gaza: US Airdrops Over 38,000 Meals

The United States initiated a series of humanitarian airdrops in Gaza on Saturday, delivering over 38,000 meals to the Palestinian enclave, where the United Nations warns nearly 576,000 people are on the brink of famine. This operation, involving three C-130 US military planes and support from Jordanian forces, marks the first in a planned series of relief efforts as aid agencies signal the dire need for assistance amidst ongoing hostilities.

Videos circulated on social media showing residents collecting boxes of aid, a glimmer of hope for those trapped in the conflict zone. The White House has committed to continuing these airdrops, noting that they have the backing of Israel, despite some criticisms that airdrops may not be as effective as ground deliveries and could inadvertently aid militants.

“Israel welcomes the humanitarian airdrops by the US, which were discussed and coordinated with us,” an Israeli official in Washington told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, senior US officials, speaking ahead of resumed ceasefire talks in Egypt, indicated a potential breakthrough in negotiations, contingent on Hamas’ agreement to release hostages.

The US airdrop initiative follows intensified scrutiny of the American response to the humanitarian disaster, exacerbated by recent violence at aid distribution points and the UN reiterating the need for food and medical assistance in the enclave. As international calls for a ceasefire grow and negotiations continue in Cairo, President Joe Biden expressed hope for peace ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.