10 Mar 2009

UK aid convoy reaches Gaza

10:58 am on 10 March 2009

Part of a 99-vehicle convoy bringing medicine, food, clothing and toys from the UK has reached Gaza after a 24-day journey through Europe and Africa.

Organised by the Viva Palestina group, the convoy entered Gaza from Egypt.

It was held there for a day because the Egyptian authorities objected to its carrying some non-medical goods.

Gaza is under a blockade by the Israeli military, which Egypt helps to enforce at the Rafah border crossing.

The BBC reports the Egyptian Red Crescent is expected to deliver non-medical aid via an Israeli crossing point where it can be checked by the Israeli military.