The UAE, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), launched an emergency initiative to evacuate 85 critically ill and injured Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. These patients had various medical conditions, including cancer, injuries, blood diseases, congenital conditions, and neurological, cardiac, liver, and renal diseases. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, mentioned that 63 family members and caregivers accompanied the patients during the evacuation process, which took place through the Kerem Shalom crossing in Israel to Abu Dhabi.
The initiative highlighted the UAE’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people during catastrophic conditions in Gaza. Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasized the importance of the evacuation mission to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians and provide immediate relief. She also mentioned the UAE’s historic support for the Palestinian people, with the country receiving over 700 patients from Gaza and providing medical care for them and their families in UAE hospitals.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude to the UAE for supporting the evacuation mission and providing urgent care for the sick and wounded from Gaza. He called for the establishment of evacuation corridors through various routes to ensure the timely treatment of patients. The UAE has previously provided substantial aid to Gaza, including food, relief, and medical supplies through ships, flights, airdrops, and trucks. The recent aid shipment contained 5,340 tons of humanitarian supplies, the largest since the start of relief operations in Gaza.
The UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza reflect the country’s commitment to saving lives and supporting vulnerable populations during times of crisis. The evacuation initiative underscores the importance of global cooperation and solidarity in addressing urgent humanitarian needs. With the support of organizations like the WHO, the UAE continues to play a vital role in providing critical medical assistance to those in need, demonstrating a strong commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. By prioritizing the well-being of the Palestinian people and offering immediate relief, the UAE sets an example for other countries to follow in times of crisis.
