Three US servicemembers sustained non-combat-related injuries during humanitarian pier operations off the coast of Gaza, a senior US general reported on Thursday. These operations are part of a broader effort to deliver much-needed aid to the region.
Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, Deputy Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM), informed reporters that the injuries were minor for two of the servicemembers, who have since returned to duty. The third servicemember was medically evacuated to a local Israeli hospital and is in critical condition, according to a US official.
The pier operation aims to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, a move ordered by US President Joe Biden in response to frustrations over the lack of Israeli cooperation. The temporary pier, constructed at a cost of over $300 million, was completed last week. However, the aid delivered so far falls short of the anticipated requirements, leading to criticism from US lawmakers and other critics.
Senator Roger Wicker, a prominent opponent of the project, criticized the operation’s effectiveness and cost. He emphasized the risks posed to the 1,000 US troops involved and called for the project to be halted.
To date, 569 metric tons of aid have been delivered across the pier, though much of it remains in assembly areas onshore. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are responsible for distributing the aid to Palestinians in need. CENTCOM reported that 820 metric tons of aid had reached Gaza, with 506 metric tons delivered to those in need.
Daniel Dieckhaus, director of USAID’s Levant Response Management Team, indicated that the delivered aid could sustain tens of thousands of people for a month. Despite this, the distribution has faced challenges, including the interception of trucks and security concerns.
The Pentagon aims to increase the daily delivery of aid trucks, but current numbers fall short of the UN’s estimate of 500 trucks needed per day. NGOs have arranged their own security to avoid relying on Israeli military escorts, given recent incidents that resulted in the deaths of aid workers.
US defense officials are exploring alternative routes to ensure safe delivery of aid. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized the complexity of operations in a combat zone and reiterated that no American troops would be on the ground in Gaza, though they remain at risk.
The deployment of around 1,000 US servicemembers for the construction and operation of the temporary pier has sparked debate. Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin acknowledged the potential for US troops to come under fire and affirmed their right to self-defense, further fueling opposition from some lawmakers.
Senator Wicker has urged President Biden to reconsider the mission, calling for the pier’s dismantling and the withdrawal of US troops to avoid further risks. His statement preceded the announcement of the injured servicemembers.
