UAE resumes Gaza airdrops after receiving Israeli permission

Israel's close regional ally, the United Arab Emirates says it will resume airdropping aid into Gaza “immediately” as the humanitarian situation deteriorates further due to the ongoing Israel blockade.

Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan made the announcement on X, describing the crisis as having reached a “critical and unprecedented level,” without naming Israel.

“We will ensure essential aid reaches those most in need, whether through land, air or sea. Airdrops are resuming once more, immediately,” he said. “Our commitment to alleviating suffering and providing support is resolute and unwavering.”

Airdrops, typically used as a last resort in war zones, have drawn criticism from aid officials, who argue they are no substitute for full-scale land access.

Unrwa chief Philippe Lazzarini earlier described the move as a costly and ineffective “distraction” that fails to address widespread hunger. He urged Israel to “lift the siege, open the gates [and] guarantee safe movements [and] dignified access to people in need”