Jordanian Helicopters Deliver First Aid to Gaza Since Ceasefire

A significant humanitarian effort is underway as Jordan prepares to send its largest aid convoy to Gaza since the outbreak of conflict in October 2023. Consisting of 120 trucks, this mission aims to deliver essential food and medical supplies to the embattled territory. The convoy, led by driver Mustafa al Qadri, will first cross Israeli customs at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge before heading to the Erez crossing into Gaza, where aid will be handed over to local drivers associated with the World Food Programme. Jordanian King Abdullah II has been a strong advocate for these relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of supporting Palestinians, many of whom have familial ties to Jordan. The convoy is timed to coincide with increasing international calls for humanitarian aid as the ceasefire negotiations progress. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where 90% of the 2.2 million residents are displaced and heavily reliant on aid. In Gaza, scenes of desperation persist as children face long queues for food, reflecting the profound impact of the ongoing conflict. Local residents express hope for peace and the return of a normal life, as illustrated by the story of ten-year-old Farah Khaled Basal, who dreams of reuniting her family. The Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation reports that it has the capacity to load up to 150 trucks daily for Gaza, indicating a strong willingness to provide assistance once access is fully granted. However, the situation remains precarious, with ongoing security concerns and significant obstacles to the delivery of aid.

Researchers have potentially identified an ancient site in Jordan as Mahanaim, a biblical location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The site, known as Tall adh-Dhahab al-Gharbi, was part of the Iron Age kingdom of Israel. A study published on November 20 in the journal Tel Aviv, authored by archaeologists Israel Finkelstein and Tallay Ornan, asserts that they discovered remnants of a significant building used by elite individuals, possibly including the kings of Israel. The name "Mahanaim," translating to "two camps," is believed to be largely derived from its proximity to another site known as Penuel. Archaeological evidence at Tall adh-Dhahab al-Gharbi includes stone blocks featuring intricate engravings, such as figures playing musical instruments and scenes depicting a lion and a banquet. The style of these engravings aligns with art from the eighth century B.C., linking it to the era of King Jeroboam II, ruler of Israel during that time. Finkelstein noted the biblical references which indicate that Mahanaim was a significant location for Israelite rulers, as it was where King David sought refuge during a conflict. While the findings provide strong circumstantial evidence, the researchers acknowledge that definitive proof of royal visits remains elusive.