In a determined effort to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, a significant aid convoy from Jordan has set off, led by driver Mustafa al Qadri. Traveling through the rugged landscape towards the Jordan Valley, they navigate the complexities of crossing borders and overcoming challenges such as roadblocks by Israeli settlers and the threat of hijacked shipments.
Mustafa expressed his commitment to delivering much-needed supplies like food and medications, describing the act as a vital connection to his Palestinian roots—an emotional sentiment resonating across the convoy. "Delivering this aid is a good deed. It makes me happy," he stated, highlighting the camaraderie between Jordanians and the people of Gaza.
As the convoy of 120 trucks—reportedly the largest since the conflict escalated in October 2023—proceeds towards the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge border crossing, the symbolic weight of their mission is underscored by a police escort equipped with mounted machine guns.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II has strongly advocated for increased aid flow, reiterating that Gazans must not be forgotten by their neighbors. The UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, stressed the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for unhindered aid access to the 2.2 million displaced individuals in Gaza, most of whom are dependent on external support.
Witnessing the catastrophic humanitarian situation first-hand, a BBC journalist reported on the dire conditions facing families—a sentiment echoed by 10-year-old Farah Khaled Basal, who longs for the return of her father and basic necessities like flour for her family.
Meanwhile, 16-year-old Lamees Mohammad Al Mizar’i can’t help but reflect on the stark contrast in her daily life before the war. The once picky eater now finds herself grateful for any food available as she stands in line for rations alongside siblings and strangers. The psychological toll on children like her highlights the pervasive desperation, where the act of queuing for rice is fraught with the weight of survival.
Back in Amman, organizations like the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organisation are ready to mobilize more aid, anticipating loading up to 150 trucks each day, depending on clearance and conditions. Relief agencies await the full opening of Gaza, desperate to bring peace and relief to a region aching for hope and restoration.
Mustafa expressed his commitment to delivering much-needed supplies like food and medications, describing the act as a vital connection to his Palestinian roots—an emotional sentiment resonating across the convoy. "Delivering this aid is a good deed. It makes me happy," he stated, highlighting the camaraderie between Jordanians and the people of Gaza.
As the convoy of 120 trucks—reportedly the largest since the conflict escalated in October 2023—proceeds towards the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge border crossing, the symbolic weight of their mission is underscored by a police escort equipped with mounted machine guns.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II has strongly advocated for increased aid flow, reiterating that Gazans must not be forgotten by their neighbors. The UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, stressed the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for unhindered aid access to the 2.2 million displaced individuals in Gaza, most of whom are dependent on external support.
Witnessing the catastrophic humanitarian situation first-hand, a BBC journalist reported on the dire conditions facing families—a sentiment echoed by 10-year-old Farah Khaled Basal, who longs for the return of her father and basic necessities like flour for her family.
Meanwhile, 16-year-old Lamees Mohammad Al Mizar’i can’t help but reflect on the stark contrast in her daily life before the war. The once picky eater now finds herself grateful for any food available as she stands in line for rations alongside siblings and strangers. The psychological toll on children like her highlights the pervasive desperation, where the act of queuing for rice is fraught with the weight of survival.
Back in Amman, organizations like the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organisation are ready to mobilize more aid, anticipating loading up to 150 trucks each day, depending on clearance and conditions. Relief agencies await the full opening of Gaza, desperate to bring peace and relief to a region aching for hope and restoration.
