Saqr Al Qasimi: Gaza central to UAE’s humanitarian efforts

UAE continues to lead relief efforts
Amid the suffering, UAE-led humanitarian initiatives have played a vital role. Sharjah Charity International (SCI) has been at the forefront through the ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign and ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation, both under the directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, affirming the country’s enduring humanitarian commitment.

Sharjah Charity’s response
In conjunction with World Refugee Day on 20 June, Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Charity International (SCI), reiterated the religious and humanitarian duty to support Gaza. He described the organisation as a key contributor to the UAE’s broader efforts to aid those affected and restore life in the region.

Over 116,000 support packages delivered
Sheikh Saqr stated that the charity had implemented a wide range of relief projects, delivering around 116,000 diverse aid packages. These included over 32,000 food parcels distributed to displaced families and 10,000 blankets and heavy garments to help residents survive winter without heating.

Supporting children amid crisis
The charity also addressed children’s urgent needs by supplying 1,728 packs of baby formula, a product absent from local markets. Additionally, the charity distributed 3,000 fully stocked school bags to children returning to education under challenging circumstances.

Water relief and infrastructure support
The charity tackled water shortages by operating water tankers and restoring damaged wells. Recently, it launched a fundraising drive to dig 12 new wells, expected to benefit more than 312,000 people across Gaza.

Food security through field kitchens and bakeries
Efforts to ensure food security included running 20 field kitchens serving daily meals to approximately 45,000 people and operating 10 bakeries producing bread for nearly 9,500 beneficiaries, addressing the acute bread shortage.

UAE’s global humanitarian vision
Sheikh Saqr affirmed that these efforts reflect the UAE’s broader commitment to immediate relief and long-term support in crisis zones. He noted continued coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international partners to expand operations and meet urgent needs.

Call to sustain solidarity with Gaza
He urged ongoing support for Gaza-related initiatives, emphasising that the aid carries not just material relief but also messages of hope and solidarity from the UAE's people. The ‘Tarahum for Gaza’ campaign and the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation stand as enduring symbols of meaningful humanitarian action.