From Cyprus to Gaza: UN-Backed Relief Operation Moves 1,200 Tons of Aid

Cyprus has dispatched 1,200 metric tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the island nation’s foreign ministry confirmed this Tuesday, underscoring its role as a key transit hub for international relief efforts amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations.

The shipment, sent by sea to Israel’s Ashdod Port, will bypass additional security checks after being pre-screened in Cyprus. Distribution inside Gaza will be carried out by World Central Kitchen under the supervision of a United Nations delivery mechanism.

“The entire operation is conducted under UN auspices,” declared the Cypriot Foreign Ministry.

Most of the aid was provided by Cyprus and Malta, with further contributions from organizations in the United States, Italy, Kuwait, and the Sovereign Order of Malta. Cyprus also highlighted the United Arab Emirates’ “essential” support in making the mission possible.

The eastern Mediterranean island has become a crucial staging point for humanitarian deliveries to Gaza. Nicosia has previously facilitated similar operations and reiterated that its facilities remain open to the international community as a humanitarian channel.

The aid push comes as talks intensify over a possible 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. According to Egyptian officials, Hamas informed mediators in Cairo and Doha this week that it is prepared to accept a proposal involving the release of 10 Israeli hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences.

The deal, which would include a suspension of Israeli military operations in Gaza for two months, is being viewed as a potential stepping stone toward a broader agreement to end the conflict.