Monday, 25 May 2026
Turkey sends largest humanitarian ship yet to Gaza as Ramadan begins
A powerful message of solidarity arrived at Egypt’s Port of Al-Arish on 21 February, as Turkey’s 21st “Ship of Goodness” docked carrying 3,300 tons of urgently needed aid for the people of Gaza.
Packed with nearly 175,000 boxes of food, along with clothing, hygiene items, shelter materials, and other essentials, the ship represents one of Turkey’s strongest humanitarian gestures since the beginning of the crisis. The supplies will be transferred to Gaza through the Egyptian Red Crescent and are expected to reach families during the holy month of Ramadan—offering relief, comfort, and a reminder that they are not forgotten.
Turkey’s Ambassador to Cairo, Salih Mutlu Şen, welcomed the ship together with officials from the Turkish and Egyptian Red Crescent. Speaking at the port, Şen said Turkey’s support for Palestinians remains unwavering and heartfelt. He emphasized that this latest shipment—arriving less than a month after another aid vessel—stands as the largest humanitarian cargo Turkey has ever sent by sea.
“During Ramadan, a time of compassion and sharing, this ship carries not only food and supplies, but the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and hope,” Şen said.
He highlighted the deep cooperation between Turkey and Egypt, describing their joint humanitarian efforts as historic. President Erdoğan, he noted, has repeatedly expressed gratitude to Egypt for facilitating aid deliveries, a partnership that has allowed Turkey to conduct the largest external humanitarian operation in its history.
Şen also stressed that Turkey remains committed to helping Palestinians live with dignity and security, pledging continued support—from mobile housing units and medical aid to long‑term reconstruction. Over 350 mobile shelters and a fully equipped field hospital are ready to be sent into Gaza as soon as conditions permit.
He urged all parties to act with humanity and responsibility, calling on Israel to allow unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid, in line with the requirements of the ongoing peace plan.
With the arrival of this ship, the total amount of Turkish aid reaching Gaza has now exceeded 110,000 tons. This number does not include the hundreds of truckloads delivered by Turkish NGOs through Egypt.
As a gesture of compassion during Ramadan, the Turkish Embassy in Cairo will also organize five large iftar gatherings for Palestinian families—moments of community, comfort, and connection at a time when many endure deep hardship.