A US military vessel, the General Frank S Besson, is en route to the Middle East with the mission of constructing a provisional pier near Gaza’s coast, according to the US Army. This initiative follows President Joe Biden’s commitment to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza via maritime routes, in response to the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Departing from a military base in Virginia on Saturday, the operation is a direct answer to the United Nations’ alarming warnings of an impending famine in Gaza, where children are already facing starvation. The challenges and perils associated with land and air aid deliveries, including recent incidents of convoy attacks and tragic accidents involving aid packages, underscore the urgency of establishing safer, alternative aid conduits.
The Pentagon estimates that the construction of the temporary pier, involving around 1,000 troops (who will remain offshore), could span up to 60 days. However, with the critical situation in Gaza, humanitarian organizations stress the immediate need for relief.
Simultaneously, the Spanish charity vessel Open Arms, loaded with approximately 200 tonnes of food provided by the US-based World Central Kitchen, awaits departure clearance from Cyprus. This effort aligns with the European Union’s recent announcement to open a new maritime aid route from Cyprus directly to Gaza, aiming to expedite the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip.
Also learn about Aid Ship Sets Course for Gaza from Cyprus.
