The construction of a military-built pier off the Gaza coast by the US is nearing completion, with expectations of it becoming operational by the upcoming weekend, pending any adverse weather conditions, according to sources cited by Politico.
Decision-makers are anticipated to greenlight the project’s operational commencement by Friday, potentially kickstarting the flow of aid into the enclave as early as the following week, the unnamed US official disclosed, noting that external factors like weather or logistical challenges could influence this timeline.
Sabrina Singh, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, revealed on Wednesday that over 50% of the maritime pier has been erected by the US military, though specifics regarding its operational start date remain undisclosed.
“We have crossed the halfway mark in establishing the pier,” Singh briefed reporters, as reported by Reuters, elucidating the multifaceted nature of the pier’s construction phases.
Singh further elaborated, confirming the completion and installation of the floating pier while underscoring ongoing progress on the causeway component.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin acknowledged potential risks faced by US personnel engaged in pier construction during his recent testimony on Capitol Hill, noting the possibility of encountering hostile fire. However, he underscored the US’s commitment to avoiding direct military engagement on Gaza’s soil.
In his State of the Union address delivered in March, President Biden outlined plans for a temporary pier along Gaza’s coast, designated to facilitate the arrival of crucial aid shipments encompassing food, water, medical supplies, and temporary housing provisions for the region.
{Matzav.com Israel}
