In a recent development, it has been reported that powerful waves have swept away vessels supporting a United States-built pier that was installed to facilitate the transfer of crucial humanitarian aid to Gaza. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement on Saturday detailing the incident.

During the transportation of humanitarian aid, the US floating dock became disconnected from the small boat that was towing it, causing the vessels to break free from their moorings. Two of the vessels are now anchored on the beach near the pier, while part of the dock has drifted towards Israel's Ashdod shore. The third and fourth vessels have beached on the coast of Israel near Ashkelon.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far. Efforts are currently underway to recover the vessels, with assistance from both the Israeli and US navies. It is worth noting that despite the incident, the Pentagon has stressed that the pier itself remains fully functional.

Constructed at a cost of $320 million, the floating pier was completed in mid-May with the aim of providing aid to the Gaza Strip. However, critics argue that it is a complicated and costly solution that deflects attention from demanding a simpler resolution - the full opening of all land crossings to Gaza by Israel and ensuring the safe passage of aid trucks.

In March, US President Joe Biden announced that the pier would be used to receive large shipments of food, water, medicine, and temporary shelter, seen by many as an attempt to appease the Democratic Party's base ahead of his re-election campaign in November.

Meanwhile, the World Food Programme (WFP), according to Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Chief Antonio Guterres, has taken possession of 97 trucks since the floating dock became operational. Dujarric acknowledged a rocky start but assured that the situation has stabilized. However, the UN still emphasizes the urgent need for massive aid to be delivered through land routes.

As the recovery of the vessels continues and discussions around aid efforts persist, the incident underscores the challenges faced in providing essential humanitarian assistance to Gaza.