London: the British government announced its collaboration with the United States and other global allies to establish a maritime corridor aimed at directly delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, as stated by the Foreign Secretary on Friday. “In cooperation with the US, the UK and our partners are set to initiate a maritime route to directly transport aid into Gaza,” David Cameron remarked, highlighting the critical humanitarian needs of the 2 million inhabitants of the besieged territory.
This initiative follows a statement by John Kirby, the US National Security Council spokesman, on Tuesday, revealing efforts to establish a maritime passage for delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza. President Joe Biden further indicated plans to establish a floating pier near the enclave’s coast. Italy has also committed to participating in this humanitarian effort.
Cameron also called on Israel to permit more truck deliveries into Gaza as a quicker method of delivering necessary aid. Additionally, British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps mentioned efforts to expedite aid delivery through this new corridor, stating, “Our Armed Forces in the region are already facilitating aid deliveries via land and air, and we will persist in our efforts to aid those in need.”
This announcement comes in the wake of Israel’s extensive military campaign in the Gaza Strip, initiated after a cross-border action by Hamas on October 7. The campaign has resulted in over 30,800 deaths and more than 72,000 injuries, alongside widespread destruction and critical shortages. According to the United Nations, 85% of Gaza’s population has been displaced internally, with significant impacts on access to food, clean water, medicine, and the destruction of 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure.
The International Court of Justice has accused Israel of genocide, with an interim ruling in January demanding that Tel Aviv cease genocidal acts and ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to Gaza’s civilians.–Web Desk