    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1993, Book I)]
    [February 25, 1993]
    [Page 206]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 206]]

    Statement Announcing Airdrops To Provide Humanitarian Aid to Bosnia-
    Herzegovina
    February 25, 1993

        The war that has raged in Bosnia-Herzegovina over the past year has
    taken a staggering toll: Thousands have been killed or imprisoned,
    thousands more are at risk due to hunger and exposure, and over 2
    million people have been forced from their homes. The humanitarian need
    is particularly great in eastern Bosnia, where areas have been denied
    basic food and medicines.
        In view of the emergency humanitarian need, I am announcing today
    that in coordination with the United Nations and UNHCR, the United
    States will conduct humanitarian airdrops over Bosnia. The airdrops are
    an extension of the airlift currently underway into Sarajevo. Their
    purpose is to supplement land convoys. This is a temporary measure
    designed to address the immediate needs of isolated areas that cannot be
    reached at this time by ground. Regular overland deliveries are the best
    means to ensure that the long-term needs of the Bosnian population are
    met, and the United States calls on the parties to guarantee the safe
    passage of the humanitarian convoys throughout Bosnia.
        The priority for air deliveries will be determined without regard to
    ethnic or religious affiliation. These airdrops are being carried out
    strictly for humanitarian purposes; no combat aircraft will be used in
    this operation. The Department of Defense will be working with the UNHCR
    to determine the timing and locations for the airdrops.
        I am grateful for the considerable international support given to
    this initiative.