CENTCOM Restores Gaza Aid Pier After Storm Damage

U.S. Central Command announced on Friday that the damaged Gaza aid pier has been successfully re-established after being hit by heavy storms last month. The pier, which plays a crucial role in delivering humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, was restored at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time.

CENTCOM stated that in the coming days, they will facilitate the movement of essential food and emergency supplies into Gaza in support of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The temporary pier, originally estimated to cost $320 million, saw a cost reduction of about $90 million, bringing the total cost down to $230 million, including repair expenses.

The stormy seas in May had caused four U.S. Army vessels to break free from their moorings at the pier, highlighting the importance of its restoration. The pier was initially built by the United States to provide a means of delivering aid to the war-torn region by sea.

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh explained that the cost savings were achieved through lower-than-expected expenses for contracted drivers, trucks, and commercial vessels, as well as Britain’s contribution of a berthing vessel for soldiers and sailors. Despite the repairs, CENTCOM assured that the operations of the pier will remain unchanged to prevent further damage, with temporary shutdowns only occurring during severe weather conditions.