Duke of Sussex Demands Immediate Aid Corridors for Gaza During Jordan Visit
The Duke of Sussex has made a stark and urgent call for the immediate opening of food and medical aid corridors into Gaza, speaking during a significant humanitarian visit to Jordan alongside the Duchess of Sussex. The royal couple, travelling as part of a World Health Organisation delegation, received detailed updates on the dire humanitarian situation from organisations including World Central Kitchen, which provides meals in crisis zones globally.
Critical Humanitarian Appeal
In an interview with Channel 4 News, the Duke stated unequivocally that "the aid corridors need to be opened and they are currently not." His remarks strongly echoed those of WHO director-general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, who has emphasised the critical necessity for full access for humanitarian organisations to deliver essential aid to those most in need. The Duke described their visit as "a really important time for us to collaborate and come here and shine a light and focus on the very real humanitarian catastrophe that has happened and continues."
During their engagements, Harry and Meghan met with children at a refugee camp, an interaction facilitated by Dr Tedros. The Duke also visited a hospital providing critical care for children recently injured in Gaza, where the WHO highlighted the vital role of the medical evacuation corridor through Jordan and the pressing need for sustained international support. Harry praised Jordan's "moral leadership," calling the country's efforts "incredible work" and a "humanitarian hub for the Middle East."
Visit to Rehabilitation Centre
On Thursday, the couple's schedule included a visit to Jordan's National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts in Amman. The Duke urged a group of recovered addicts to return to their communities and support others, telling them: "There's no shame in having an addiction." He and Meghan listened intently as men shared their personal experiences of substance abuse and the comprehensive support received from the centre.
The couple described the facility as "incredible," particularly praising its holistic approach to patient care, which includes amenities such as a gym and yoga classes. Speaking to a former addict now working as a mentor, the Duke offered encouragement: "I want you guys to know there's no shame in having an addiction, it stems from something else which is an emotional pain – you're very, very brave to come here into hospital. Now what you need to do is use this experience and go back into your communities and help other people who are in a similar situation."
In the centre's gym, Harry chatted with recovering addicts on rowing machines, asking one: "When you leave, will you continue exercising?" Upon receiving a positive reply, he added: "New habits, good habits rather than bad habits – we all have bad habits." Meghan observed a yoga class, introducing herself to the men holding poses.
Support and Legacy
The 40-bed centre, operating under the Ministry of Health, has provided short-term residential and outpatient treatment since its inauguration in 2001. Services include medical withdrawal support, psychological counselling, and social rehabilitation. During their visit, the couple, along with the WHO delegation, were invited to write messages of support.
Harry's message, left on a sticky note, read: "It's ok to not be ok. Trust each other. Congratulations on your recovery. Now share your courage and experience." His wife's message, written in italic script, stated: "Congratulations on your dedication to your care. Wishing you continued healing and happiness." This visit underscores the royal couple's ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes and mental health advocacy on the global stage.
