Indonesia will send immediate aid to Gaza via Hercules aircraft

INDONESIA: The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), has announced the immediate dispatch of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

The aid delivery will be facilitated through Hercules aircraft, emphasizing the urgency and commitment to providing support to the Palestinian people.

Jokowi revealed that he, along with specific groups, conducted a direct inspection of the aid delivery simulation at the Iswahjudi Indonesian National Army Air Force Base in Magetan Regency, East Java, on Friday (8 Mar).

During the simulation, multiple Hercules planes and helicopters demonstrated the release of aid packages from a specified height.

Speaking about the simulated exercise, President Jokowi expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the Hercules aircraft for delivering aid.

“Earlier, we first tried to see what it would be like using a Hercules aircraft, and we will immediately bring aid to Gaza and drop it from the air using our Hercules aircraft. It was simulated earlier, and I saw that the results were good,” he explained.

Highlighting Indonesia’s unique role in providing assistance, Jokowi stated, “Indonesia is one of the countries that is given the opportunity to provide aid to Gaza and to the Palestinian people by air, because by land it is already difficult.”

This commitment underscores Indonesia’s determination to alleviate the challenges faced by the people in Gaza.

Although Jokowi did not delve into specifics when questioned about the type of aid being sent to Gaza, he reassured that Indonesia would provide whatever is necessary.

“Yes, as usual, what the Palestinian people need, what the people in Gaza need,” he stated, emphasizing the ongoing commitment of the Indonesian government to support the Palestinian people.

Previously, on 4 November 2023, President Jokowi took a significant step by dispatching humanitarian aid from both the Indonesian people and the government to support the Palestinians in Gaza.

The initial phase of aid, totaling 50.8 tonnes, encompassed a diverse range of essential items such as food, medical equipment, blankets, tents, and logistical supplies.

This substantial aid package successfully reached Gaza, Palestine, on 9 November 2023.

Following the seamless execution of the first phase, the Indonesian Government continued its commitment to assisting the Palestinian people.

On 20 November 2023, the second phase of humanitarian aid was facilitated through Halim Perdanakusuma Airport.

This second installment comprised a total of 21.7 tonnes, with 3.3 tonnes contributed by the Indonesian Government, primarily consisting of medicines and health equipment.

Additionally, 18.4 tonnes of aid were generously provided by the Indonesian people, including canned food, mattresses, blankets, and hygiene kits.