Jordan sends first aid plane for Syria, Turkey earthquake relief effort

AMMAN — Following Royal directives to help the those injured and the families of victims of the earthquake that hit Syria and Turkey, the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said that the first aid plane affiliated with the Royal Jordanian Air Force left the Kingdom laden with rescue equipment, tents and logistical and medical supplies.

The plane also carried a 99-member Jordanian medical team composed of international search and rescue personnel and five doctors from the Royal Medical Services, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The ministry said that the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) has been working with the relevant authorities in Syria and Turkey, and through the ministry, to make preparations to send immediately needed items to the affected areas as the Kingdom’s contribution to relief operations. Several shipments have been prepared to be delivered to the two countries, according to the ministry. 

JHCO is the sole authority tasked with collecting and delivering assistance, and all materials and in-kind aid will be delivered through the organisation, the ministry said.

JHCO requested that any national institution or individual willing to donate items limit their contributions to only medicine and medical supplies, blankets, tents, winter clothing, food parcels, drinking water and cash donations.

The international Jordanian search and rescue team is affiliated with the Public Security Directorate and has received a “high-ranking” international classification.