Humanitarian Aid Effort in Gaza Shifts from Temporary Pier to Land Routes

The mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza via the temporary pier, known as Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS), has concluded, according to the deputy commander of U.S. Central Command. This announcement was made during a media briefing today.

Transition to Land Routes

Aid will now be transported from U.S. vessels sailing from Cyprus to Ashdod, Israel, and then trucked into Gaza through the northern border crossing with Israel. This operation is conducted with the consultation and approval of the Israeli government and led by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Our assessment is that the temporary pier has achieved its intended effect to surge a very high volume of aid into Gaza and ensure that aid reaches the civilians in Gaza in a quick manner,” stated the deputy commander, noting that nearly 20 million pounds of aid have been delivered through the pier efficiently. The temporary pier provided a crucial supplemental route for aid during a critical time when other routes were less viable.

Impact and Future Operations

The deputy commander highlighted the cost-effectiveness and essential role of the pier in ensuring aid reached those in acute need in Gaza. However, transitioning to land routes is now deemed the most effective and efficient method for delivering aid.

“In the coming weeks, we expect that millions of pounds of aid will enter into Gaza via this new pathway,” the deputy commander added. Israel has been fully supportive of this effort, facilitating the transition to land routes through the Port of Ashdod.

Ongoing Support and Future Needs

Since March, Centcom has been supporting USAID and international community humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. The operation has been crucial in ensuring aid delivery despite challenging conditions.

Sonali Korde, assistant to the administrator of USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, emphasized the need for a ceasefire and the return of hostages to expedite the delivery of urgently needed assistance to the most vulnerable people in Gaza.

Conclusion

The shift from the temporary pier to land routes marks a new phase in the humanitarian aid mission to Gaza, ensuring continued support and relief for those in need. The collaborative effort between the U.S., Israel, and international partners underscores the commitment to providing essential aid in a timely and efficient manner.

For more information on the ongoing humanitarian efforts and how to support, please contact USAID or the U.S. Central Command’s media relations team.