The arrival of the task force personnel and three Hercules C-130 aircraft was welcomed by Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono, senior officers, representatives from the National Zakat Agency (Baznas), TNI Headquarters, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, Jakarta, on Saturday.
Harjono explained that the Garuda Merah Putih Task Force delivered the aid in accordance with the orders of President Prabowo Subianto. The task force departed for Jordan on August 13 to prepare for the delivery of aid to Gaza.
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The aid was air-dropped to residents of Gaza on August 17, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Indonesian Independence Day.
However, based on government considerations, the mission was extended until August 28.
“The drops were carried out from August 17 to August 28. The total aid amounted to 91.4 tons, with 520 bundles deployed in Gaza,” he said.
The Indonesian Air Force deployed three transport aircraft during the mission: Hercules TNI AU A-1344, A-1343, and A-1339. The mission, led by Colonel Pnb Puguh Yulianto, was deemed a success.
Harjono added that the mission’s success in Gaza demonstrated the Indonesian government’s commitment and seriousness in promoting world peace.
He emphasized that the TNI AU will always be ready to carry out similar missions in the future.
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Translator: Walda Marison, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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