The US military has concluded its temporary pier mission off the Gaza coast after approximately 20 days of operation. The pier, known as the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS), was utilized to deliver 19.4 million pounds of aid to Gaza. The decision to end the mission comes as humanitarian aid will now be transported through the Ashdod port in Israel or via land crossings into Gaza, deemed a more sustainable approach by officials.
Despite the successful aid delivery, the pier mission faced challenges from the outset. Shortly after being anchored in May, the pier was damaged by heavy seas and a storm, necessitating repairs in Israel. Subsequent attempts to reattach the pier were thwarted by inclement weather conditions, leading to its eventual disconnection at the end of June.
Throughout the mission, three US service members sustained injuries, with one soldier in critical condition. While the soldier's condition has improved, they remain hospitalized in Texas. Additionally, logistical issues arose as aid shipments accumulated on the beach due to security concerns that prompted the World Food Programme to suspend distribution operations from the pier.
In response to the distribution halt, the WFP collaborated with commercial contractors to transfer aid from the pier to warehouses to prevent spoilage. However, distribution operations did not resume following the pause, highlighting ongoing challenges in aid delivery.
Addressing the distribution obstacles, officials emphasized the importance of overcoming logistical hurdles to ensure aid reaches those in need efficiently. The US military will continue to support aid delivery efforts from Cyprus to the Ashdod port, underscoring the commitment to humanitarian assistance in the region.
