Saudi Arabia has ramped up humanitarian efforts to Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan in order to bring succour to those affected by ongoing crises in the three areas.
A statement on Thursday by the Embassy of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria read that: “As conflict, economic hardship, and displacement continue to impact millions of people in Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), has intensified its humanitarian efforts, delivering critical aids to vulnerable populations in order to face challenges with renewed hope and resilience.
“In Gaza, where humanitarian needs have reached critical levels as a result of Israeli war, KSrelief has launched one of its most extensive relief campaigns to date. Over 54 aid planes and 8 ships have been dispatched, loaded with emergency food, medical supplies, shelter materials, and a wide range of logistical support items.
“Among the specific aid resources are 20 ambulances, 30 electricity generators, and 10 water tanks, all designed to provide immediate relief to those affected by ongoing Israel war on Gaza. Additionally, KSrelief has distributed 39,200 ready-to-eat meals to help meet immediate nutritional needs for families facing severe food shortages. This operation includes specialised provisions and support for displaced individuals, offering a comprehensive response to the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
The statement added that: “Furthering its commitment, Saudi Arabia has allocated over $80 million to support long-term aid projects in Gaza. These funds, channeled through partnerships with major international organisations such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian Refugees, the World Food Programme (WFP), World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Palestinian Red Crescent Society, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), target critical sectors including food security, health, water and sanitation, shelter, and emergency response. This funding aims to create sustainable support systems that will continue to aid Gaza’s population even after immediate crisis relief has been delivered, laying the foundation for longer-term recovery.
“In Lebanon, where an economic collapse has placed immense pressure on innocent civilians, KSrelief has increased its humanitarian outreach to alleviate hardship. KSrelief’s twenty aid plane arrived in Beirut, carrying essential food, medical, and shelter supplies to provide relief to vulnerable communities across the country. Lebanon’s economic crisis due to Israel air strikes has led to widespread shortages in food, fuel, and healthcare services, impacting millions and worsening living conditions.
“Saudi Arabia’s aid to Lebanon, managed through KSrelief, also includes targeted support for medical facilities, with critical supplies directed towards hospitals and healthcare centers strained by resource shortages. KSrelief’s strategic efforts align with the Kingdom’s broader vision of fostering stability in the Middle East, addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and providing resources to bolster Lebanon’s health and food security systems.”
In Sudan with the country grapples with the effects of prolonged conflict and displacement, KSrelief has sent 13 planes and 31 relief vessels loaded with vital resources, including food supplies, health equipment, shelter materials, and other essential non-food items.
The statement said: “This aid, totaling over $118 million, underscores Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting Sudanese families affected by instability and ensuring that they have access to critical resources needed for survival and recovery.
“In addition to delivering emergency relief, KSrelief has implemented programmes designed to address Sudan’s food security and health infrastructure needs, supporting local healthcare facilities and nutrition programmes for vulnerable populations. Volunteer initiatives and logistical support programmes coordinated by KSrelief further strengthen the Kingdom’s response, as Saudi Arabia positions itself as a reliable partner in Sudan’s path to recovery.”
