Qatar delivers 12 tons of Syria aid

A high-level delegation from the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has successfully delivered 12 tons of essential medical equipment to Syria, arriving at Damascus International Airport as part of the “Take Heart Syria” initiative. This humanitarian mission aims to bolster the resilience of Syrian healthcare institutions amid ongoing challenges. The medical supplies were donated by several organizations, including Sidra Medicine and Doha Health Care Group, in collaboration with QRCS, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent Society (SARCS), and Syria’s Ministry of Health.

The delegation, led by QRCS President Yousef bin Ali Al-Khater, was warmly received by Syrian officials, including Health Minister Dr. Musaab Nazzal Al-Ali and representatives from the Qatari Embassy and SARCS. This airlift follows three previous land aid convoys that transported a total of 90 tons of medical supplies, valued at over QR45 million, to Syria, demonstrating Qatar's ongoing commitment to humanitarian support.

In his keynote address, Al-Khater highlighted the fruitful cooperation between various entities, emphasizing that the aid shipment is a testament to solidarity with the Syrian people. The shipment included critical items such as laboratory equipment, intensive care beds, X-ray machines, and physiotherapy supplies, which will be distributed across hospitals and health centers based on need, aiming to strengthen Syria’s fragile healthcare system.

This delivery is part of Qatar’s extensive airlift program, which has seen multiple Qatar Emiri Air Force planes landing in Damascus to deliver food, relief supplies, and medical equipment. The coordinated air bridge, operated by the Qatar Fund for Development, has been crucial in addressing Syria’s escalating humanitarian needs.

The visit also underscores the deepening cooperation between Doha and Damascus, with previous high-level meetings facilitating healthcare infrastructure projects in Syria. In June, Syria’s Health Minister met with his Qatari counterpart in Doha, agreeing on plans to construct a modern hospital, renovate three major facilities, and supply ambulances and medical equipment.

These joint efforts reflect Qatar’s commitment to enhancing Syria’s health sector amid prolonged conflict and rebuilding efforts. The combination of airlift support and institutional cooperation aims to restore vital medical services, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure access to essential care for the Syrian population, highlighting the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis.