Jordan Begins Helicopter Aid Deliveries to Gaza: First Since Ceasefire

Jordanian helicopters have initiated crucial aid deliveries to Gaza, marking the first instance of such operations since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was established. The BBC was granted access to accompany the mission, which landed at an Israeli-held airstrip in southern Gaza, situated between the Israeli border and Wadi al-Salqa.The helicopters touched down at a small landing strip, surrounded by razor wire and capable of accommodating only two Blackhawk helicopters at a time. The Jordanian crew remained on board the aircraft as the aid supplies were offloaded onto the ground.Among the items delivered were vital medical supplies and baby formula sourced from Britain. Due to the possible spoilage of products during extended travel, swift air deliveries were prioritized. This first operation involved 16 helicopters, with 14 additional units on standby for follow-up missions.Upon landing, the urgency of the task was palpable, as aid workers from the World Food Programme quickly took charge of unloading the supplies. The scene, marked by desolation after prolonged conflict, showcased grey ruins and a barren landscape enveloping the airstrip.Dr. Mohammad al-Momani, the Jordanian government's spokesperson, expressed deep concern over the suffering experienced by the civilians in Gaza, describing the conditions as "horrific" and "inhumane." He reiterated Jordan's commitment to work alongside the international community to mitigate the dire circumstances faced by the Palestinian population.The ongoing efforts are a modest attempt to address the extensive humanitarian crisis in Gaza as rebuilding begins in the aftermath of extensive destruction.