“Israel denies involvement in inspection of food packages airdropped over Gaza”

Israel Denies Involvement in Inspection of Airdropped Food Packages over Gaza

In a joint operation with Jordan, the United States airdropped food packages over Gaza on Saturday. However, Israel has denied any involvement in the inspection of these packages, according to a statement from the Pentagon. The goods, consisting of prepackaged foods, were inspected before delivery, but the details of the inspection process and the location of departure for the airplanes remain undisclosed.

White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby confirmed the collaboration between the United States and Jordan, stating that 38,000 ready-to-eat meals were dropped across three C-130 aircraft. This was the second airdrop operation, with Jordan conducting the first one just a few days prior. The United States plans to continue these airdrops, and other countries, including Belgium, are considering similar operations to address the ongoing food crisis in Gaza caused by the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

However, Israeli opposition leader MK Yair Lapid raised concerns about the security aspects of these airdrop operations. In a speech criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, Lapid stated that the American and Jordanian airdrops did not undergo security inspections. He argued that the lack of proper security measures undermines the government’s ability to handle the war effectively and diplomatically.

Contrary to Lapid’s claims, the Israeli office of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) stated that Israel was indeed involved in the inspections. COGAT emphasized that aid packages airdropped into Gaza undergo security checks, which also involve Israeli officials. However, no further details were provided regarding the specific security measures taken during these inspections.

Israel has maintained strict control over inspections of goods entering Gaza to prevent weapons or materials that could be used for weapon production from reaching Hamas. This includes an inspection mechanism for goods entering Gaza through Egypt’s Rafah border. Prior to the war, there were three land crossings into Gaza, two controlled by Israel and one under Egyptian control. Israel has long controlled Gaza’s airspace and sea space for security reasons. Gaza does not have a large-scale cargo port, and its airport was operational only briefly from 1998 to 2001.

The recent airdrops conducted by the United States and Jordan mark the first time in over two decades that non-Israeli aircraft have flown over Gaza airspace. The initiative aims to provide essential aid to the 2.3 million people living in Gaza who are facing a severe food crisis due to the ongoing conflict.

In conclusion, while Israel denies direct involvement in the inspection of airdropped food packages over Gaza, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) asserts that Israeli officials are indeed part of the security checks. The joint efforts between the United States and Jordan aim to alleviate the food crisis in Gaza caused by the conflict between Israel and Hamas. However, concerns regarding the security aspects of these operations have been raised, highlighting the need for effective measures to ensure the safety and well-being of those in need.