First Aid Ship Departs from Cyprus to Reach Gaza Strip

A ship carrying 200 tons of aid for the people of Gaza set sail from Cyprus, marking the first maritime corridor test to counter blockades. The Open Arms charity vessel, which was delayed due to practical issues, departed Larnaca port with a barge containing flour, rice, and protein. The journey to Gaza takes approximately 15 hours but could be longer with a heavy tow barge. This is the first cleared ship to deliver supplies to Gaza by sea since 2005. Israel reportedly struck an area used by a high-ranking Hamas leader in Gaza, and the UN Security Council discussed sexual violence against Israeli women. A charity ship carrying food and supplies for Gaza has set sail from Cyprus, opening a new sea route for humanitarian aid.