New York (ANTARA) - Indonesia has pledged US$12 million worth of food assistance to the people of Gaza through the World Food Programme (WFP), in response to the ongoing food crisis in the region.

This contribution is part of Indonesia’s commitment to deliver 10,000 tons of rice, which was previously announced by President Prabowo Subianto during his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, September 23.

“The joint decision by the governments of Palestine and Indonesia to channel the aid through WFP was made to ensure swift and well-targeted distribution,” said Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono during a press briefing in New York on Friday.

Minister Sugiono emphasized that the decision to deliver aid through the WFP was made because the security situation on the ground continues to deteriorate.

“This is the best option given the extreme difficulty of delivering aid into Gaza, while the food needs there are extremely urgent," he said.

Indonesia has long partnered with WFP to deliver aid in various crisis-hit countries. The US$12 million package, officially handed over on September 24, 2025, will support WFP’s emergency food response program in Gaza.

“As the President stated at the UN General Assembly, Indonesia remains committed to supporting the Palestinian people with rice aid and other essential resources,” said Sugiono.

He added that distributing the aid through WFP would ensure that Gazans receive nutritious, ready-to-eat meals that meet international food standards.

Despite the assistance, the delivery of aid to Gaza faces considerable logistical hurdles, including limited storage facilities, fuel shortages, and restricted access to clean water.

“Indonesia’s commitment to Palestine is unwavering. We continue to explore and utilize all available mechanisms and channels to deliver meaningful support,” he added.

Sugiono added that this year, the government has also disbursed assistance amounting to US$2 million through the International Red Cross for Palestine.

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Reporter: Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Arie Novarina
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