A pier built by the U.S. military to deliver aid to Gaza is expected to reopen despite being closed twice due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Pentagon press secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that the U.S. is working towards getting the pier operational again sometime this week, although no specific date was provided. The primary goal is to resume aid deliveries to Gaza and take advantage of the current conditions to ensure as much aid as possible crosses the pier.
The U.S. military constructed the pier last month in the Mediterranean Sea to facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to Gaza, which has been severely impacted by eight months of intense fighting between Israel and Hamas. The construction of the pier cost approximately $320 million, but it has faced challenges since its inception. The structure was damaged by choppy weather, leading to its temporary closure, and four vessels that were stabilizing the pier broke off due to rough waters.
Despite the setbacks, the Biden administration remains committed to providing crucial aid to Palestinians in Gaza, where basic necessities are scarce. The failure of the pier coincides with Israel’s significant military operation in Rafah, as tanks have entered the city for the first time since the conflict began. While there are no current plans to dismantle the pier, Ryder emphasized that it was always intended to be a temporary solution, and there is no established timeline for when it will cease operations.
The reopening of the pier is crucial for delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, where the population continues to suffer from the effects of the prolonged conflict. The U.S. and other international organizations are working to ensure that aid reaches those in need and that the pier operates efficiently despite the challenges it has faced. The ongoing efforts to reopen the pier demonstrate the commitment to providing support to the people of Gaza during these difficult times.