The US military is set to temporarily dismantle the humanitarian pier off the coast of Gaza and move it back to Israel due to concerns about heavy seas potentially damaging it. 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 weeks as a safety measure. Aid operations across the pier will be suspended until sea conditions improve.
Despite continuing aid deliveries on Friday, the pier is expected to be towed to Ashdod late Friday night local time. CENTCOM stated that the relocation is necessary to ensure the pier's ability to deliver aid in the future. Since May 17, over 3,500 metric tons of aid have been delivered through the maritime corridor for onward distribution by humanitarian organizations.
Although the pier has facilitated the movement of thousands of tons of aid into Gaza, it has faced logistical challenges since becoming operational in May. Recent incidents, including vessels breaking free and the pier sustaining damage in heavy seas, have raised questions about its long-term viability.
Operations by the World Food Programme at the pier have been suspended, with aid accumulating on the beach in Gaza. A risk assessment is ongoing following Israeli military operations near the pier, which the US military emphasized was solely for humanitarian purposes.
Humanitarian officials acknowledge the importance of aid delivery into Gaza but highlight that the pier is not a sustainable solution. Challenges in distribution within Gaza persist, despite recent efforts to open additional land crossings for aid. The lack of an effective deconfliction method to protect aid workers remains a concern.
Reports suggest that the US military is considering dismantling the pier, underscoring the complexities of providing humanitarian assistance in the region.
