Official statements from contributing nations and organizations

US CENTCOM Completes $320M Floating Pier for Gaza Aid as UK Shipment Arrives

May 16, 2024, 06:06 AM

The United States has completed the installation of a $320 million temporary floating pier off the coast of Gaza to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The project, led by the US military with support from the UK, Cyprus, and other partners, aims to create a new maritime corridor from Cyprus to Gaza. The pier, which was anchored to the beach in Gaza by US Central Command (CENTCOM) personnel following approval from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Gen. Kurilla, will allow cargo ships to offload goods that will then be distributed by the United Nations. The first shipment of UK aid, nearly 100 tonnes of shelter coverage kits including 8,400 shelter kits, has already left Cyprus. The initiative is expected to begin operations in the coming days, although there are concerns about the safe distribution of aid due to ongoing conflicts and logistical challenges.