UAE Initiates Major Winter Aid Campaign to Protect One Million Civilians in Gaza

The UAE launched a major relief drive on Thursday to provide warm clothing to one million people in the Gaza Strip ahead of the winter season. As part of the country's continued support for the enclave, this winter clothing initiative aims to offer a crucial lifeline to civilians struggling through a severe humanitarian crisis.

With a sharp drop in temperatures expected in the coming months, conditions are anticipated to worsen the immense challenges caused by the prolonged war with Israel. Nearly two million people have been displaced throughout the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing conflict, leaving them vulnerable to heightened health risks during the harsh weather.

The Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation has already airlifted 5,000 winter kits, which include 50,000 jackets, blankets, and other seasonal essentials designed to bring warmth and protection to Palestinian families. Abdulaziz Al Zaidi, the director of community services at the foundation, emphasized that the campaign reflects the UAE's steadfast dedication to delivering vital aid to Gaza.

Demonstrating ongoing logistical support, the UAE dispatched 781 tonnes of supplies last week—comprising food, shelter materials, and nine water tankers—to the Gaza Strip. These crucial goods were assembled at the UAE Humanitarian Aid Logistics Centre located in Al Arish, Egypt, before crossing into Gaza.

Under a broader humanitarian campaign launched at the onset of the conflict in October 2023, the UAE has delivered a total of 14,290 lorries carrying 136,439 tonnes of aid. According to Israeli tallies, the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, resulted in 1,200 deaths in Israel and 251 hostages taken. Meanwhile, data from Gaza health authorities indicates that more than 73,700 Palestinians have been killed during Israel's military campaign. Although a US-backed ceasefire in October 2025 halted large-scale combat in Gaza, Israeli strikes have continued, and little headway has been made toward achieving permanent peace.