An Italian charity, Confederazione Nazionale delle Misericordie d’Italia, has sent 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The aid departed aboard a C-130J military aircraft from Pisa and will reach Gaza via Cyprus through the Cyprus Maritime Corridor. This initiative, coordinated with the UN and EU, aims to assist Gaza’s civilian population.
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said, “Italy does not forget those who suffer,” in a statement on X. Misericordie President Domenico Giani also underscored their moral duty, stating, “The humanitarian crisis in Gaza requires constant and coordinated commitment.”
The aid, destined for the Israeli port of Ashdod, faces logistical challenges. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs highlighted blocked aid deliveries, claiming Israel uses starvation as a weapon. Israel denies these accusations, with COGAT stating that aid is flowing into Gaza primarily through the Kerem Shalom, Erez, and Kissufim crossings. It accuses Hamas of impeding or misappropriating supplies.
Earlier this year, the Italian government launched its Food for Gaza initiative. Backed by €12 million it aims to enhance food security and alleviate suffering. The programme, led by Italy’s Foreign Ministry in partnership with the World Food Programme and Red Cross, focuses on immediate needs and sustainable solutions.
Italy third biggest supplier of arms to Israel
However, Italy has also faced protests over its arms exports to Israel. While the government pledged to halt new arms sales after October 7, existing contracts continued. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed Italy had blocked all new export licences, stating, “This policy is much stricter than that of our partners.”
