The US military is currently considering the temporary dismantling of the humanitarian pier off the coast of Gaza and relocating it back to Israel due to concerns about potential damage from heavy seas. This decision comes after the pier, known as Joint Logistics over the Shore (JLOTS), had to be moved back to the Israeli port of Ashdod for the second time in a matter of weeks.
A final decision on the relocation is expected to be made on Friday. The pier initially suffered damage in heavy seas earlier this month, leading to a week-long repair process in Ashdod. It was subsequently moved back to Gaza last week and resumed aid delivery operations on Saturday, only to be halted again due to adverse sea conditions on Monday and Tuesday.
Officials have highlighted the crucial role of the pier in transporting thousands of tons of aid into Gaza. However, its operational effectiveness is significantly impacted by sea conditions. Forecasts indicate rough waters on Friday and throughout the weekend, with concerns about the pier's sustainability as fall and winter approach in the eastern Mediterranean.
Furthermore, the World Food Programme's aid distribution activities at the pier have been suspended for several days, leading to a backlog of aid in the staging area on the beach in Gaza. The situation underscores the challenges posed by the unpredictable sea conditions and the need for a sustainable solution to ensure continuous aid delivery to Gaza.
