DUBAI — UAE Presidential Adviser Dr. Anwar Gargash has reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering humanitarian commitment to Gaza, emphasizing that the Palestinian people remain a top priority even as global attention shifts to other crises.
Gargash’s remarks followed a heart-warming mass wedding ceremony organized by the UAE’s Operation Gallant Knight 3 in Gaza, which brought a rare and much-needed moment of joy to the conflict-ridden enclave.
Reflecting on the event, Gargash stated that the UAE’s support goes beyond providing essential relief to ease suffering; it is also about restoring smiles and renewing hope for a better future. He described the UAE’s dedication to humanitarian causes as a “noble legacy” and an established approach that remains steadfast, regardless of changing news cycles or global priorities.
A Moment of Joy for 250 Couples
Held under the ‘Thawb Al Farah 3’ (Wedding Dress of Joy 3) initiative, Operation Gallant Knight 3 organized a mass wedding for 250 couples on Friday.
The celebrations took place at the Marine Club grounds along Gaza’s seafront. In a striking contrast to the ongoing hardships, newlyweds arrived in decorated cars, welcomed by the cheers and congratulations of family members and thousands of local residents. The event provided the couples with an opportunity to celebrate their unions and embark on a new chapter of life, offering a brief respite from the challenging conditions surrounding them.
Three Years of Operation Gallant Knight 3
The mass wedding coincides with the third anniversary of Operation Gallant Knight 3, which was officially launched on November 5, 2023. According to the state news agency WAM, the initiative was established to deliver comprehensive humanitarian, medical, food, and relief aid to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Since its inception, the operation has delivered monumental support, accounting for approximately 46 percent of all international humanitarian assistance received by Gaza. To date, the UAE has provided more than 136,000 tonnes of aid valued at over $4.16 billion.
The operation’s vast food assistance program sustains 40 community kitchens that produce around eight million meals annually. It also supports roughly 27 bakeries, boasting a combined capacity of up to 1.5 million bundles of bread each year.
As temperatures drop, the operation is also rolling out its seasonal relief projects. This includes a major winter clothing initiative targeting one million people in Gaza, ensuring that children, women, men, and the elderly receive essential clothing, blankets, and heating supplies to survive the harsh weather.
