U.S. Military to Dismantle $320 Million Temporary Floating Gaza Aid Pier Amid Operational Challenges

Jul 17, 2024, 06:37 PM

The U.S. military has decided to permanently dismantle the temporary floating pier off the coast of Gaza, which was installed to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The decision follows a series of operational challenges, including weather-related detachments and security issues. The pier, which cost an estimated $320 million, was in use for less than two months. It aimed to bring aid to Palestinians but faced criticism for its effectiveness and high cost. The Pentagon has announced that future aid deliveries will be routed through Israel's Ashdod port. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder noted that the JLOTS pier, intended to assist with aid shipments from Cyprus, will conclude its mission soon. The mission, initially intended to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, was plagued by logistical problems and has now been deemed complete.