By Ziad Hamdi
In a new humanitarian gesture reflecting the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to supporting the Palestinian people, the “Khalifa Humanitarian 8” ship set sail from Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, heading to Egypt’s Al-Arish Port to deliver urgent relief aid to the Gaza Strip. This initiative is part of the “Gallant Knight 3” operation, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people amid challenging humanitarian conditions.
The “Khalifa Humanitarian 8” ship is one of the largest aid vessels dispatched by the UAE, carrying 7,166 tons of diverse supplies. These include 4,372 tons of food, 1,433 tons of shelter materials, 860 tons of medical supplies, and 501 tons of hygiene items. Carefully designed to address the urgent needs of Gaza’s residents, this cargo responds to the acute shortages of food, medicine, and basic necessities caused by the ongoing crisis.
Since the launch of the “Gallant Knight 3” operation in November 2023, the UAE has provided continuous humanitarian support to the Palestinian people. In addition to 17 relief ships, the UAE has conducted over 54 airdrop operations under the “Birds of Goodness” initiative and sent land convoys comprising dozens of trucks loaded with food, medical supplies, and baby formula. These efforts, coordinated with Egyptian authorities, ensure the delivery of aid to those in need through the Rafah crossing.
Leading Emirati institutions, such as the Emirates Red Crescent, the Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, and the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works, have collaborated to organize this initiative. Their efforts reflect the UAE’s comprehensive humanitarian vision, which has delivered over 77,000 tons of aid to Gaza since the crisis began. These figures represent more than statistics; they symbolize a bridge of hope connecting the UAE with the Palestinian people.
The dispatch of the “Khalifa Humanitarian 8” ship is not merely a logistical effort but an expression of deep solidarity with the people of Gaza, particularly women and children enduring the brunt of the crisis. This initiative underscores the UAE’s role as a “homeland of humanity,” combining efficiency in delivering aid with a sincere commitment to supporting just causes. The ship, laden with vital supplies, represents a beacon of hope for Gaza’s people and embodies the UAE’s values of generosity and compassion.
Amid the escalating humanitarian challenges in Gaza, the UAE stands as a symbol of generosity and solidarity through initiatives like “Gallant Knight 3” and the “Khalifa Humanitarian 8” ship. These efforts go beyond providing material aid, carrying a profound humanitarian message that reaffirms the UAE’s unwavering support for its brothers in times of hardship, offering hope and assistance without boundaries.
