US set to permanently dismantle pier on Gaza coast

In a press release regarding discussions between US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon confirmed that the "temporary aid pier," constructed off the Gaza coast for humanitarian aid distribution, "will soon cease operations."

"The Secretary stressed the importance of increasing the flow of humanitarian assistance through all land crossings and supporting aid deliveries to Ashdod Port in Israel for onward distribution in Gaza," the statement read.

The United States initially announced the construction of the temporary pier on March 8, as a response to the closure of all gates to the Gaza Strip by Israeli authorities. The pier was intended to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid by sea.

However, the pier faced several setbacks, including damage from adverse weather conditions. Since its operation, it has managed to supply only the equivalent of one day's pre-war land assistance in two months. Additionally, it was controversially used as a military base during a June 9 operation, which aimed to rescue Israeli hostages held by Hamas. This operation resulted in the deaths of 274 Palestinian civilians in exchange for four Israelis.

Locals have referred to the pier as an "occupation port," and its operation has been deemed a complete failure. The decision to dismantle the pier marks the end of this troubled project. (ILKHA)