First ship to use new sea route approaches Gaza with vital aid

A ship belonging to the Open Arms aid group approaches the shores of Gaza (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP)

A ship carrying 200 tons of aid is approaching the coast of Gaza in a mission to establish a sea route from Cyprus that is intended to bring more assistance to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The ship, manned by the Spanish aid group Open Arms, left Cyprus on Tuesday towing a barge laden with food sent by World Central Kitchen, the charity founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres.