Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Saturday that it will resume humanitarian airdrops over the Israel-blockaded Gaza Strip. "The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical and unprecedented level," stated Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on X, emphasizing the UAE's leading role in providing life-saving assistance to Palestinians.

According to Anadolu Agency, the UAE's top diplomat assured that essential aid will reach those in need "whether through land, air or sea." He confirmed that airdrops would resume immediately, underscoring the nation's unwavering commitment to alleviating suffering and providing support.

The announcement comes amid a worsening famine in Gaza as a result of Israel's ongoing blockade and the systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid. This blockade has resulted in the deaths of dozens of children and infants from hunger and malnutrition. Gaza's Health Ministry reported on Saturday that five more Palestinians, including two children, had died within 24 hours due to famine, increasing the death toll since October 7, 2023, to 127, including 85 children.

Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza for 18 years, and since March 2, it has closed all crossings, preventing aid convoys from entering and disregarding international pleas to reopen them. Despite calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli army has continued its offensive in Gaza since October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of over 59,700 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children. This relentless bombardment has devastated the enclave and caused severe food shortages.

In November of the previous year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.