TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Central Command conducted an air drop of humanitarian assistance into Northern Gaza on March 17, 2024, at 12:06 p.m. (Gaza time) to provide essential relief to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict. The joint operation included two C-17 Globemaster III U.S. Air Force aircraft, and U.S. Army Soldiers specialized in aerial delivery of U.S humanitarian assistance supplies. U.S. C-17s dropped over 28,800 U.S. meals and 34,500 half-liter bottles of water into Northern Gaza, an area of great need, allowing for civilian access to the critical aid. The DoD humanitarian airdrops contribute to ongoing U.S. and partner-nation government efforts to alleviate human suffering. These airdrops are part of a sustained effort, and we continue to plan follow-on aerial deliveries.