BBC travels with first Jordanian helicopter delivering aid inside Gaza

Jordanian helicopters have begun delivering aid to Gaza for the first time since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was declared. From the air, the devastation is stark: grey ruins and a barren landscape stretch out beneath the midday haze. As the helicopter lands, Jordanian air force personnel quickly disembark to ensure the aid is received by a representative from the World Food Programme. A lone figure in a hi-vis jacket approaches the site, where two trucks are waiting to transport the aid to Khan Younis. The unloading process is swift and efficient, with no formalities, as the helicopter's rotors continue to turn. There is a palpable sense of urgency—14 more helicopters are ready to follow, ensuring aid continues to reach those in need.

The BBC was granted access to join a mission that landed in Israeli-controlled territory in southern Gaza, located between the Israeli border and the town of Wadi al-Salqa. Although this area is on the edge of the conflict zone, it looks like a wasteland after 15 months of war.

I observed what seemed to be Israeli digging machines working nearby.

For Tuesday's operation, the Jordanians deployed 16 helicopters to deliver medical supplies and baby formula, which could spoil if transported over long distances by road.

Dr. Mohammad al-Momani, the official spokesman for the Jordanian government, described the scenes of human suffering in Gaza as "horrific... and inhumane." He stated that Jordan, along with the international community, is working to alleviate this suffering.