Aid reaches Gaza via newly repaired US-built pier

### U.S. Aid Reaches Gaza via Repaired Pier Amidst Conflict

On Saturday, U.S.-provided aid reached Gaza for the first time since storm damage necessitated repairs to an American-built pier. This effort, overseen by the U.S. military, marks a renewed attempt to deliver essential supplies to Palestinians by sea—a venture that has faced numerous challenges.

The pier, constructed by the U.S. military, was operational for merely a week before it sustained damage from severe weather on May 25. A section of the pier, after being repaired in an Israeli port, was reconnected to Gaza’s shoreline on Friday.

**Delivery of Aid:**
Approximately 1.1 million pounds (492 metric tons) of humanitarian aid arrived in Gaza through the pier on Saturday, as reported by U.S. Central Command. They emphasized that no U.S. military personnel landed in Gaza. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) collaborates with the U.N. World Food Program and other humanitarian partners to distribute the aid.

**Context of the Delivery:**
This delivery coincided with an intense Israeli air and ground offensive that rescued four captives taken by Hamas during the October 7 attack, which initiated the current conflict in Gaza. According to Gaza health officials, at least 210 Palestinians, including children, were killed during this operation.

**Denial of Involvement in Israeli Operations:**
In response to social media claims, U.S. Central Command clarified that the pier, its equipment, personnel, or other assets were not used in the Israeli operation. They noted that Israel utilized an area south of the pier for the safe return of hostages.

**Ongoing Efforts and Challenges:**
Despite initial setbacks, the resumption of aid through the pier represents a vital route for delivering food and emergency supplies to Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict. Restrictions on land crossings and the fighting have severely limited the flow of essential supplies into Gaza.

The pier had previously faced numerous hurdles, including damage from storms and disruptions to aid convoys by crowds. Adaptations to travel routes have since ensured that aid reaches those in need.

**Future Goals:**
Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, expressed confidence that improved processes would enable the delivery of greater amounts of aid. The goal is to move 1 million pounds of supplies through the pier into Gaza every two days. To date, about 3.5 million pounds of aid have been delivered via this maritime route.

**International and Local Efforts:**
While relief agencies urge Israel to reopen land routes for comprehensive aid delivery, Israel cites security concerns and challenges in distributing aid due to the ongoing conflict. The U.N. has warned of potential starvation for over 1 million Palestinians if the hostilities persist.

President Joe Biden initially announced the pier project in early March, with the aim to support humanitarian efforts. The initial cost was projected at $320 million, later reduced to $230 million due to contributions from the UK and lower-than-expected costs for equipment and trucking.

This initiative underscores the complex and urgent need for humanitarian aid amidst the prolonged conflict, reflecting ongoing international efforts to alleviate the crisis.