Investigation uncovers US assistance task in Gaza more catastrophic than realized

(MENAFN) An investigation has uncovered that the US military’s humanitarian mission in Gaza, Operation Neptune Solace, resulted in far more damage, injuries, and operational failure than previously admitted. Launched in 2024 under former President Joe Biden’s administration, the mission aimed to address the lack of overland access for humanitarian aid by constructing a temporary offshore pier to deliver supplies directly from ships to the Gaza shoreline.

While the Pentagon acknowledged some challenges, such as adverse weather that caused damage to the pier, it did not disclose the full extent of the problems. A report by the Department of Defense Inspector General, published last week, revealed that the mission led to 62 injuries, including the death of Army Sergeant Quandarius Stanley, who succumbed to injuries sustained aboard a Navy vessel five months after the attack in May 2024.

The report also highlighted that both the Army and Navy failed to meet operational standards for readiness and that logistics planning was inadequate. It further noted that the mission cost $230 million, with an additional $31 million spent on repairs after significant damage to watercraft and equipment. The operation lasted three months but was effectively operational for only about 20 days, delivering 20 million pounds of aid, which humanitarian groups noted was insufficient to meet Gaza’s daily needs.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened due to Israel’s military response to the 2023 Hamas attack, with over 50,000 Palestinian casualties and widespread shortages of essential resources. International organizations and aid groups have repeatedly criticized both the US and Israeli governments for blocking overland aid routes and dismissed Washington's alternative efforts as politically motivated.

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