Jakarta, Indonesia – Indonesia is shifting its strategy for delivering 10,000 tonnes of rice aid to Gaza, prioritizing land routes over airdrops due to the notable risks associated with aerial delivery and ongoing limitations to access caused by Israel’s military operations.the proclamation comes as international concerns mount over a potential famine within the besieged Palestinian territory.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi has directly appealed to Israeli authorities to immediately establish unobstructed humanitarian corridors into Gaza, condemning what Indonesia views as the weaponization of starvation and the escalating civilian death toll resulting from the ongoing blockade. Minister Marsudi specifically referenced the impact on vulnerable populations, stating, “The obstruction of aid is directly contributing to the loss of life, particularly among children and infants. The images emerging from Gaza are deeply disturbing and demand a humanitarian response.”
Speaking on tuesday, as reported by Antara news agency, Marsudi emphasized Indonesia’s preference for land-based delivery as the most effective and humane method, acknowledging the logistical challenges involved. “While airdrop operations present considerable risks and numerous technical hurdles, we believe a sustained land delivery system, if permitted, offers the most reliable means of reaching those in need,” she stated.
The Foreign Minister reiterated the concerns regarding airdrops, highlighting the potential for aid to be scattered or fall into inaccessible areas, and the difficulties in ensuring its safe distribution. “Airdrop delivery carries inherent risks. There are also many technical issues that require careful consideration and preparation.”
Indonesia initially announced its commitment to send the 10,000-tonne rice shipment on Sunday, framing it as concrete support for the Palestinian people amidst a growing global crisis. The aid is intended to address the escalating food insecurity in Gaza, were the United Nations estimates over 80% of the population is facing acute food shortages, according to a recent report by the World Food Program (WFP).
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Indonesia has historically been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause, maintaining a non-binding resolution in favor of Palestinian statehood at the united Nations. The current crisis has prompted increased diplomatic efforts from jakarta, including consultations with regional partners such as Egypt and Jordan, key stakeholders in facilitating aid delivery to Gaza via the Rafah crossing, which has faced intermittent closures.Indonesia’s aid package is being coordinated with the Palestinian Authority and relevant UN agencies to ensure efficient and equitable distribution within Gaza. The rice is sourced from national stockpiles and is intended to provide sustenance for an estimated 600,000 people for a period of one month, based on average daily consumption rates.
