Flying Aid to Gaza: Emirati Pilot Proud to Support Palestinians

Capt. Asmaa Saeed Al Ali’s Humanitarian Mission

Capt. Asmaa Saeed Al Ali says flying crucial humanitarian aid into Gaza gave her a profound sense of honor “to offer a lifeline to embattled Palestinians.” Her commitment to this humanitarian mission underscores the deep sense of duty and compassion that drives her and her colleagues in the UAE Armed Forces.

First UAE Team to Al Arish

She is part of the first UAE team that headed to the Egyptian city of Al Arish as part of the Gallant Knight 3 operation in November. This operation was initiated to support those caught in the conflict, providing them with much-needed relief and assistance during these challenging times. The dedication and resilience shown by Capt. Al Ali and her team exemplify the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Preparing for the Mission

The National caught up with the Emirati military pilot as pallets filled with medical and food aid were being loaded into the C-130 aircraft at Al Arish ahead of an air operation. Capt. Al Ali’s calm demeanor and focused attitude reflected her deep sense of responsibility and dedication to the mission at hand.

National Duty and Aid Delivery

“I was here from the beginning,” she said, calling it her “national duty.” This sense of national duty is a powerful motivator for Capt. Al Ali, who sees her role not just as a job, but as a vital contribution to the welfare of people in dire need. Her involvement in such missions is a testament to her bravery and commitment to humanitarian causes.

Apart from relief aid, Capt. Al Ali also flew doctors and teams involved in building the UAE’s floating and field hospitals and desalination plants into the Egyptian port city. These facilities are crucial in providing medical care and clean water to those affected by the conflict. Capt. Al Ali’s role in transporting the necessary equipment and personnel highlights the multifaceted nature of her missions.

Evacuating the Injured

Flying the C-130 and C-17 aircraft, she was also involved in evacuating injured Palestinians. These evacuations are often fraught with danger, but Capt. Al Ali’s training and expertise enable her to carry out these missions with precision and care. Her ability to navigate challenging situations and ensure the safe transport of the injured is a vital part of the overall relief effort.

Delivering Aid to Remote Areas

Capt. Al Ali has also carried out three deliveries by air to areas in Gaza that were not easily accessible by road. These air deliveries are essential in reaching remote areas where road access is limited or non-existent. The ability to deliver aid by air ensures that even the most isolated communities receive the assistance they need.

Honored to Serve

“It is an honor to be able to offer a lifeline to embattled Palestinians caught up in the conflict,” she said, adding how deliveries are crucial to help Gazans who face dire shortages of food and basic necessities. Her words reflect the deep empathy and compassion that drive her actions. The dire situation in Gaza, with its severe shortages of essential supplies, makes these aid deliveries a critical lifeline for the affected population.

“I felt honored when I heard in the news that they were called ‘Birds of Goodness.'” This moniker, given to the UAE’s humanitarian missions, captures the spirit of hope and benevolence that these operations bring to those in need. For Capt. Al Ali, being part of this effort is not just a duty, but a privilege.

Observing the Conditions

Flying above the besieged Gaza Strip, Capt. Al Ali said she would often ask her assistant pilot to take control of the C-130 aircraft so she could survey the conditions below. Her curiosity and desire to understand the situation on the ground reflect her deep connection to the mission and the people it serves. Observing the conditions from above allows her to see firsthand the impact of the conflict and the importance of the aid they are delivering.

Mixed Emotions

“I was curious to see what’s happening on the ground.” This curiosity is driven by a desire to fully grasp the reality of the situation and to better understand the needs of the people she is helping. The images of destruction and devastation evoke a mixed feeling, she said.

“Part of me is happy to see pallets of aid being dropped to help the people, but it is sad to see cities and streets left destroyed due to the conflict.” These contrasting emotions reflect the complexity of humanitarian work in conflict zones. While there is joy in providing aid, there is also sorrow in witnessing the extensive damage and suffering caused by the conflict.

“You feel each street has a painful story to tell.” Every corner of the besieged areas holds stories of loss, struggle, and resilience. Capt. Al Ali’s reflections highlight the human cost of the conflict and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities.

Continuous Efforts

So far, the UAE has carried out dozens of deliveries by air since February, partnering with teams from the Egyptian and Jordanian Air Forces to ensure vital aid reaches remote parts of Gaza. These partnerships are crucial in amplifying the reach and effectiveness of the aid missions. Collaborative efforts with other nations’ air forces ensure that aid reaches even the most difficult-to-access areas.

Personal Victory

Capt. Al Ali believes it’s a personal victory for her and her country if the air deliveries “bring a smile on a child’s face.” The sight of children receiving aid and experiencing a moment of relief and happiness is a powerful motivator for her. It reinforces the significance of their efforts and the positive impact they are making.

“Seeing the parachutes from the sky is like seeing the UAE’s hands reaching the people inside Gaza.” This imagery beautifully captures the essence of the aid missions. Each parachute represents a lifeline, a beacon of hope delivered from the skies, symbolizing the UAE’s commitment to helping those in need.

UAE’s Commitment

The UAE has offered essential financial and humanitarian assistance since the war broke out on October 7, under President Sheikh Mohamed’s directives. The sustained efforts and significant contributions underscore the UAE’s dedication to humanitarian causes and its proactive approach in responding to crises.

Aid Delivered

Figures released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in June showed the Emirates had provided 33,100 tonnes of urgent supplies to Gaza since November. This substantial amount of aid, delivered through various means, highlights the scale of the UAE’s commitment to supporting the people of Gaza during this difficult time.

The aid was delivered by 320 flights, seven ships, and 1,243 lorries up until June 13. That amounts to an additional 1,100 tonnes since May. The logistical efforts involved in coordinating such a large-scale operation are immense, and Capt. Al Ali’s role in these missions is a crucial part of the overall effort.

Values and Leadership

Talking about the “values instilled in her from a young age,” she credits the UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, for teaching her to “always look for peace.” These values guide her actions and reinforce the importance of seeking peace and helping those in need.

“Our leaders represent peace, and they taught us to help people in need. It is not only a duty or our job, but we are doing what our leaders taught us,” Capt. Al Ali added. Her words reflect the deep-rooted cultural and national values that drive the UAE’s humanitarian efforts.

Ongoing Commitment

She said the “operations to help our brothers in Gaza” will continue. This ongoing commitment highlights the UAE’s steadfast dedication to providing support and relief to those affected by the conflict.

“I consider myself lucky for having got the opportunity to take on this humanitarian duty,” she said, adding that she’s ready to serve anytime and anywhere. Capt. Al Ali’s readiness to serve underscores her dedication and the sense of privilege she feels in being able to contribute to such vital missions.

“As an Emirati military pilot, I’m always ready for any duty in any place and at any time.” This unwavering commitment and readiness reflect the ethos of the UAE’s military personnel, who are always prepared to serve and support humanitarian efforts around the world.