Tel aviv: Israel's Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday that the 1,000th aircraft carrying Western military supplies has landed in the country since the war on Gaza began. This marks a significant milestone in an extensive airlift operation that has seen more than 120,000 tons of military cargo delivered since October 8, 2023.
According to Anadolu Agency, the arrival of the 1,000th aircraft underscores the continued support from the United States to Israel during the ongoing Gaza conflict. While the US maintains its backing, some Western nations have expressed criticism of Israel's actions and have imposed restrictions on arms exports. Notably, Spain implemented a royal decree in September, enforcing a complete arms embargo on Israel. Similarly, the UK, Germany, and Canada imposed limitations on weapons transfers last year.
In a statement, the Defense Ministry described the airlift operation as "unprecedented" in Israeli history. The aircraft, loaded with significant military equipment, was received by Defense Ministry Director-General Maj. Gen. Amir Baram. The ministry highlighted that over 120,000 tons of military equipment, munitions, weapons systems, and protective gear have been delivered to Israel through 1,000 aircraft and approximately 150 maritime vessels.
The exact origins of these shipments were not disclosed, but the operation is managed by the Defense Ministry's Procurement Directorate, with the involvement of the International Defense Transportation Unit, the ministry's missions in the US and Berlin, the army's Planning and Force Build-Up Directorate, and the Israeli Air Force.
A report by the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft revealed that the US has provided Israel with at least $21.7 billion in military assistance since the start of the Gaza conflict two years ago. Following October 7, 2023, the US supplied $17.9 billion in military aid during former President Joe Biden's term and $3.8 billion under current President Donald Trump. While some of this assistance has already been delivered, the remaining aid is scheduled for future delivery.
The report concluded that US support is critical for Israel to continue its military operations in Gaza. Since October 2023, Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of nearly 70,000 people in Gaza, predominantly women and children, with over 170,000 injured. Additionally, much of the enclave has been devastated due to the ongoing conflict.