The Turkish Red Crescent (TRC) has significantly increased its humanitarian aid to Gaza, distributing over three million hot meals to Palestinians facing severe hardships under prolonged Israeli attacks.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, TRC President Fatma Meric Yilmaz explained the challenges of operating in Gaza. “We’ve delivered over three million meals in total. The conditions are extremely difficult—no electricity, gas, or stoves. Fires are kept burning for hours beneath large pots to cook,” she said.

Initially providing 2,000 hot meals daily, the TRC scaled up its operations to serve 15,000 meals every day. “The decision to increase meal distribution came under external pressure. Despite the logistical challenges, we are committed to meeting the rising need,” Yilmaz added.

She also highlighted Türkiye’s leadership in Gaza aid, delivering over 65,000 tons of humanitarian assistance since the beginning of the crisis. However, Yilmaz acknowledged that the aid provided is insufficient, particularly with access restrictions at the Rafah Border Crossing since May 2023. “Around 400 trucks have been waiting outside the border for nearly five months. We are exploring alternative routes, including through Jordan,” she said.

Gaza remains in dire straits as Israeli attacks, ongoing since October 2023, have killed more than 43,700 people and displaced nearly the entire population. Severe shortages of food, water, and medicine persist due to an extensive blockade. Meanwhile, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza.