On October 22nd, Turkey dispatched a plane carrying medical supplies and a specialized medical team to Egypt, with the aim of providing humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca made the announcement via social media. The supplies, loaded onto a Turkish presidential plane, included medicine and medical equipment. The mission’s objective is to assess the medical needs of the people in Gaza and explore the feasibility of establishing field hospitals at Egypt’s El Arish Airport and Rafah Border Crossing.
GAZZE’YE YARDIM İÇİN UÇAĞIMIZ HAVALANDI. Cumhurbaşkanlığımıza ait, ilaç ve tıbbı malzeme ile dolu, 20 uzman hekimin bulunduğu uçak Ankara’dan Mısır’a hareket etmiş durumda. pic.twitter.com/UDUlzBm4op
— Dr. Fahrettin Koca (@drfahrettinkoca) October 22, 2023
It’s important to note that Rafah is the primary entry and exit point for the Gaza Strip, not under the control of Israel. Israel has made it clear that no aid will be allowed into Gaza until the release of hostages taken by Hamas during an attack on October 7th. However, Israel has expressed willingness to permit aid through Egypt, provided that it doesn’t fall into the hands of Hamas.
Minister Koca also mentioned plans to send three cargo planes to El Arish Airport, carrying additional medical supplies and equipment. Additionally, there are preparations for a ship to transport field hospital equipment and ambulances, pending coordination with the relevant authorities. Specific details about these plans were not provided.
