BBC travels with first Jordanian helicopter delivering aid inside Gaza

Jordanian helicopters have begun airlifting aid into the Gaza Strip, marking the first such aid operation since the ceasefire was announced between Israel and Hamas. From an aerial view, the midday haze gradually dissipated, revealing a landscape of gray rubble and a lifeless scene. As the helicopters landed, Jordanian air force personnel were the first to disembark, ensuring that representatives from the World Food Programme were present to receive the aid.

A person wearing a high-visibility jacket approached alone. Near the barbed wire fence, two trucks were waiting to transport the aid to nearby Khan Yunis. The entire process was devoid of elaborate formalities, and the aid was quickly unloaded. The helicopter rotors continued to turn, creating a tense and urgent atmosphere, as 14 more helicopters were waiting to access the landing zone.

The BBC was granted access to participate in this mission, with the helicopters landing in the Israeli-controlled southern Gaza area, situated between the Israeli border and the town of Wadi Salqa. Although this was only on the periphery of the conflict zone, the area near the landing site appeared desolate after 15 months of war. Journalists observed what appeared to be Israeli bulldozers operating in the area.

Jordanian government spokesman Dr. Mohammed Momani stated that the humanitarian suffering in Gaza is "shocking...and inhumane." He indicated that Jordan is working with the international community to alleviate the suffering of the local population. In this operation, Jordan deployed a total of 16 helicopters, delivering medical supplies and baby formula, which could spoil if transported via long overland routes.