The conditions for the full implementation of the Cyprus initiative for humanitarian aid in Gaza, as well as the relevant timing, are affected by asymmetric factors, sources have told CNA,  adding that the initiative is in force and that “we are at a sensitive point”. 

Invited to comment on Israeli press reports that Israel has given the green light, in principle, for the operation of the humanitarian corridor, the sources said that Cyprus’ share of implementation at this stage has been deemed sufficient and that the conditions for the full implementation of the Amalthea initiative, as well as the relative timing, are affected by asymmetric factors “beyond our own control.”

“The Amalthea plan is in force. We are at a sensitive point, we are doing everything we can to help,” the sources said.

They noted that the international community unanimously agrees that there is need to provide humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza, as well as that it has the  moral obligation to work towards this direction.

In this context, they added, the Republic of Cyprus, taking into account its role as a country in the region, developed an initiative with the aim of providing humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza and that the initiative concerns exclusively the humanitarian aid and in no way will it serve any other purpose.

“The Republic of Cyprus offers an option to the international community, which did not exist before. Taking this into account, the conditions were formulated for the collection, receipt, control and departure of cargoes with humanitarian aid, something that received a positive response,” they said.

In addition, the same sources said, a cooperation was formed with the United Kingdom, which participates in this initiative by providing both the appropriate means and significant amounts of humanitarian aid.

The sources said that Cyprus’ share of implementation at this stage has been deemed sufficient.

“The conditions for the full implementation of our initiative, as well as the relative timing, are affected by asymmetric factors beyond our own control,” they stressed.

Additionally, they said that it is up to the side in possession of the marine transport means to decide about the final point of safe delivery, taking into account vital parameters and the situation on the ground. When the UK deems it as useful, it will take a position about the point of delivery, they said. 

“The Amalthea plan is in force. We are at a sensitive point, we are doing everything we can to help. And we will continue,” the sources told CNA.