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The United Arab Emirates has completed its 76th humanitarian airdrop over Gaza under the “Birds of Goodness” initiative, part of the wider “Gallant Knight 3” operation. The mission, conducted in coordination with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and supported by Germany, Italy, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Indonesia, delivered urgently needed food parcels prepared by Emirati charities and humanitarian organisations.

The airdrop was launched in response to the worsening humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza, where civilians remain cut off due to border closures and ongoing hostilities. With air restrictions in place, the UAE coordinated with Egypt and Israel to establish safe corridors for aid delivery by parachute. The initiative aims to provide immediate relief, avert hunger, and demonstrate the UAE’s continued commitment to humanitarian support and global cooperation.

Speaking exclusively to Gulf News, Mohammed Al Sharif, official spokesperson for Gallant Knight 3 and Birds of Goodness, explained the scope and challenges of the relief operations.

“The objective is straightforward: get assistance to civilians cut off from aid and help avert hunger and famine risks caused by the conflict and access constraints,” he said. “Every airdrop reflects the UAE’s determination to stand by the Palestinian people and collaborate with regional and international partners to deliver vital support.”

Scale of operations

As of mid-August 2025, the UAE has carried out 76 airdrop missions, delivering approximately 4,020 tonnes of food and essential supplies, equivalent to more than 350,000 food parcels. Each parcel is designed to support a family for one week, with flour and carbohydrate-rich staples among the most in-demand items.

International collaboration

Egypt provided airspace access, warehousing facilities, parachutes, and technical assistance through its Air Force, while Israel allowed temporary suspension of aerial activity in drop zones to ensure safe operations. Jordan later joined coordination efforts, granting additional logistical support. The participation of European and Asian countries further underscored the global dimension of the initiative.

Operational challenges

Adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, affected parachute accuracy and required pilots to fly at low altitudes, increasing operational risks in an active conflict zone. Heavy electronic jamming also complicated GPS navigation, forcing pilots to rely on manual techniques and training to deliver aid precisely.

Despite these challenges, the UAE has maintained uninterrupted operations, reinforcing its commitment to humanitarian relief in Gaza. The Gallant Knight 3 mission continues by air, sea, and land, highlighting the UAE’s multifaceted approach to delivering assistance.

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