US military declares conclusion of floating pier mission in Gaza
Date
7/18/2024 4:49:47 AM
(MENAFN) The US military announced on Wednesday the conclusion of the floating pier mission that was delivering aid to the Gaza Strip. Deputy Commander of Central Command Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper stated in an online briefing, "The maritime surge mission involving the pier is complete. So, there's no more need to use the pier."
Vice Admiral Cooper explained that the aid delivery mission will now shift from the temporary pier in Gaza to a port in Ashdod, Israel. He noted, "In the past few weeks, we've begun utilizing this new hybrid pathway from the sea and land to deliver aid from Cyprus to the port of Ashdod, Israel, then into North Gaza via the UN and WFP (World Food Program)."
He added that in the coming weeks, millions of pounds of aid are expected to enter Gaza through this new route. The transition marks a significant logistical change aimed at ensuring continuous humanitarian support to the region.
On Tuesday, the Pentagon reported that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin informed his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, about the impending cessation of operations at the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) temporary pier. The Pentagon emphasized the Secretary's message on the necessity of increasing humanitarian aid flow through all land crossings and supporting aid deliveries via Ashdod Port for distribution in Gaza.
The USD230 million pier was established to enhance the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to Gaza but has faced several operational pauses. US President Joe Biden had ordered the creation of the sea route on March 8 in response to Israeli restrictions and ongoing conflict in the enclave. Despite operational challenges, President Biden expressed hope during a recent NATO summit that the efforts would eventually prove successful.
The pier, currently located at Ashdod port, has been operational for approximately 20 days since its installation in May, having encountered disruptions due to bad weather and mechanical issues. The transition to the Ashdod route is expected to streamline aid deliveries and ensure sustained support to the people of Gaza.
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