The Netherlands has begun airdropping humanitarian aid packages over the Gaza Strip due to what Dutch officials described as a “catastrophic” humanitarian situation in the besieged enclave.
According to local media reports, the mission, initiated at Jordan’s request, was approved by the Dutch cabinet a week ago.
The report stated that the aircraft began airdropping on Friday and is scheduled to continue daily airdrops for the next two weeks.
The aid packages, attached to parachutes, contain drinking water, medicines, and non-perishable food items.
Meanwhile, the Dutch government has revoked export licences for naval equipment destined for Israel, citing concerns over its potential misuse in the ongoing conflict.
“Given the current situation in Gaza, it is virtually impossible for a licence to be granted for the export of weapons to Israel,” Dutch foreign minister Caspar Veldkamp said in a recent letter to parliament.
He said that could contribute to the activities of the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip or the West Bank.
Since October 2023, the Dutch government has rejected 11 licence applications for the export of military goods and dual-use goods with military end-use in Israel, said Mr Veldkamp.
(Xinhua/NAN)
