In a statement by the Chairman of the Union of Charitable Societies and Foundations, Saad Marzouq Al-Otaibi, regarding Kuwait’s humanitarian efforts to support the Gaza Strip, he stressed that Kuwait remains a bridge of humanity that reaches those most in need, through multi-directional movements by air, sea and land, led by His Highness Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Al-Otaibi explained that these movements are an extension of Kuwait’s giving record, enhancing its position as a global humanitarian center.
Al-Otaibi continued: "We express our deep appreciation for the speech delivered by the representative of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, may God protect him, at the Third Summit of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue, when His Highness addressed the Palestinian issue. He pointed out that His Highness's emphasis on supporting the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination reflects Kuwait's steadfast commitment to human values and justice. In the Union of Charitable Societies and Foundations, we support all efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region, and we hope that this summit will contribute to strengthening Arab and Islamic solidarity.
Al-Otaibi said: "Kuwait's humanitarian efforts towards Gaza come with direct support from government ministries; This enhances the sustainability of charitable work and makes Kuwait a beacon of humanity. The Ministry of Social Affairs has played an active role in organizing charitable work and ensuring adherence to transparency standards, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has coordinated to ensure that aid arrives quickly and smoothly in cooperation with international authorities. The Ministry of Information also provides comprehensive coverage of these campaigns, highlighting Kuwait’s efforts to enhance the country’s image as a major supporter of humanitarian work globally. The Ministry of Defense also plays a pivotal role, as the Air Defense Forces established the relief air bridge that transported nearly 50 aid planes, in an institutional cooperation that highlights the unity and concerted efforts of the state to serve urgent humanitarian issues.
Air Relief
Al-Otaibi explained that the Kuwaiti air bridge, which began in October 2023, is one of the most important initiatives that were made possible thanks to the “Faz’a (Flush of aid) for Palestine” campaign, in which more than 23 Kuwaiti charitable associations and organizations participated, as nearly 50 planes were sent loaded with medical, food and shelter aid. These planes represented a lifeline for the besieged people of Gaza, and provided the necessary aid to meet the needs of hundreds of families affected by the violent events in the Strip.
Marine Relief
Al-Otaibi added that in March 2024, the first Kuwaiti ship sailed from Turkey carrying 1,200 tons of basic food supplies such as rice, flour and canned food, and these supplies were distributed to the neediest families in Gaza.
Marine relief also continued with the launch of the “Gaza II” ship in April 2024 from the Turkish port of Mersin, which carried an additional 900 tons of basic relief supplies.
In August of the same year, the "Gaza III" ship set sail, also carrying 1,650 tons of food parcels and health supplies; which contributed significantly to supporting the people of the Strip.
Land Relief
As for land relief, Al-Otaibi indicated that Kuwaiti trucks loaded with hundreds of tons of medical and relief aid crossed Jordanian territory to reach Gaza, and coordination was made with the relevant authorities to ensure that this aid reaches those entitled to it in a timely manner. Al-Otaibi confirmed that Kuwaiti charitable societies are preparing to operate more land convoys in the coming days; which reflects Kuwait's commitment to continuing humanitarian support for Gaza.
Kuwaiti Medical Teams
On another level, Kuwaiti medical teams played a vital role in supporting the Palestinian people on the ground. Teams consisting of Kuwaiti consultants and surgeons entered Gaza through the Rafah crossing, where they provided specialized medical services in difficult and complex circumstances. Al-Otaibi praised the efforts of the Kuwaiti medical teams that did not hesitate to provide the necessary health care, thus embodying the highest meanings of human solidarity.
Local Relief Convoys
Al-Otaibi added that the "Goodness Convoys" campaign, which targeted the displaced in Gaza, contributed significantly to the distribution of food baskets and other basic aid. He explained that what distinguishes this campaign is its reliance on purchasing relief supplies from the West Bank, which contributed to supporting the local economy there. This step reflects Kuwait's strategic thinking in providing aid, as it seeks to achieve a positive and sustainable impact on the humanitarian and economic levels.
Al-Otaibi concluded his statement by stressing that Kuwait's humanitarian efforts towards Gaza reflect the noble values held by Kuwaiti society, stressing that Kuwait will always remain a pioneer in humanitarian work, carrying a message of peace and hope to be afflicted peoples.
