US military delivers aid to Gaza via newly repaired pier, says WWLP

The U.S. military successfully delivered humanitarian aid to Gaza on Saturday, marking the first shipment since storm damage required repairs to the American-built pier. The pier, operational for only a week before being damaged by high winds and heavy seas on May 25, was reconnected to the beach in Gaza after repairs at an Israeli port.

About 1.1 million pounds of aid was delivered through the pier, with no U.S. military personnel going ashore in Gaza. The U.S. Agency for International Development works with the U.N. World Food Program to distribute the aid.

The deliveries coincided with Israel’s rescue of four hostages taken by Hamas during an attack that launched the war in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 210 Palestinians. The U.S. Central Command clarified that the pier was not involved in the Israeli operation.

The movement of aid through the pier provides a crucial lifeline to Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict. Despite initial disruptions, efforts have been made to ensure the safe transport of aid to those in need.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper expressed confidence in the ability to deliver greater amounts of aid through the pier, with the goal of moving 1 million pounds of supplies into Gaza every two days. The U.N. has warned of a looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza if hostilities continue, emphasizing the importance of continued aid efforts.

President Joe Biden’s administration has emphasized the importance of the pier as a means to provide assistance to Gaza, acknowledging that any amount of aid can make a difference. The cost of the project has been reduced to $230 million, with contributions from Britain and lower-than-expected contracting costs.