France Initiates Humanitarian Flights to Gaza as Death Toll Surpasses 60,000
France is set to commence airlifts of 40 tons of humanitarian supplies to Gaza this week, amidst increasing international pressure on Israel to reopen land access points to facilitate urgent aid deliveries. The death toll in the densely populated enclave has now exceeded 60,000, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis, reports 24brussels.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced that four flights, each carrying 10 tons of aid, will be executed in coordination with Jordanian authorities. Barrot emphasized on BFMTV, “In close cooperation with the Jordanian authorities, we will carry out four flights transporting 10 tons of supplies each to Gaza.”
In addition to the forthcoming flights, Barrot pointed out that 52 tons of humanitarian aid remain stagnant just kilometers from Gaza, accentuating the urgency for Israel to reopen land crossings. He stressed, “It is crucial that Israel reopens the land crossings,” reinforcing the call for unhindered humanitarian access amid rising casualties.
This initiative follows President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to officially recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. This announcement reflects France’s diplomatic stance in a protracted conflict that has led to substantial loss of life and injury among Palestinians, with over 145,800 documented injuries in the last 21 months, according to local health sources.
Since mid-March, Israel has intensified its military operations, citing Hamas’ obstinacy, after a brief cease-fire earlier this year. The Israeli government also halted electricity supplies to Gaza’s main desalination plant and obstructed humanitarian aid convoys.
Recent international criticism compelled Israel to partially reopen aid routes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu designated the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) as the official distributor of incoming supplies, though humanitarian organizations on the ground have condemned the GHF, dubbing it unprofessional and politically entwined with Israeli authorities.
As France amplifies its direct assistance to Gaza’s populace, the international community faces the ongoing challenge of addressing immediate humanitarian needs while striving for a lasting resolution to the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
