In reading about the relief efforts that continue in the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake, I have come across a bit of snide commentary that has been made about the apparent lack of assistance being provided by Arab countries. I want to point out that this is certainly not the case. While not drawing press attention to their efforts like other countries have, Arab nations have united in an effort to provide needed assistance to support the humanitarian relief work being undertaken in Haiti. As the people of Haiti continue to rely on the world's compassion and generosity, the Arab world's response to their needs has been significant and noteworthy. Their generosity should also be showcased.
Based on information available to date, Algeria granted $1 million in emergency humanitarian aid. Bahrain sent a disaster relief team to provide aid, pledged $1 million in relief, and the Bahrain Red Crescent Society appealed for donations for Haiti. Egypt allocated medical supplies and personnel. Jordan established a 12-bed military hospital in Port-au-Prince, and personnel are also feeding children who enter; dispatched two planes carrying a mobile field hospital, rescue team, doctors and six tons of aid supplies that include food, medicine and clothing. Kuwait sent 100 tons of food, medical supplies, tents and blankets and donated $1 million, delivered through the country's Red Crescent Society.
Lebanon airlifted 25 tons of tents, 3 tons of medicine, vaccines and other supplies, and sent aid workers to help in relief efforts. Libya sent a shipment of relief supplies including medicine. Morocco sent $1 million worth of medical and pharmaceutical supplies. In Palestine, the Council of Ministers convened in the West Bank and donated humanitarian aid, and in Gaza, one of the most impoverished populations on the planet, individuals donated money, food and clothing to the Red Cross. Qatar mobilized a 26-person rescue team of soldiers, police and medical professionals, and sent 50 tons of aid. Saudi Arabia donated $50 million, which will be directed through the United Nations. Syria airlifted 30 tons of humanitarian aid. Tunisia allocated $1 million to the United Nations Emergency Fund that was created for Haiti relief. The United Arab Emirates contributed over $2.6 million; three UAE charities donated more than 200 tons of medical equipment, tents and blankets, food and drinking water.