TheLittleTwentieth – Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused

Local sources from Israel: CNN, BBC.
UK coverage: BBC.

The United States military has been seen constructing a floating pier off the coast of Gaza, as tensions between Israel and Hamas continue to escalate. The pier, which is estimated to cost $320 million, is intended to deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to the devastated strip’s starving population. Despite Hamas rejecting any non-Palestinian presence in Gaza and considering any military force as an occupying power, the US military remains committed to providing aid. The construction of the floating pier indicates the US’s determination to support Gaza, even in the face of opposition.

The construction of the temporary pier began at sea last week, with images released by the United States Central Command showing crew members from several military vessels building the platform. The US military plans to operate the pier for at least the next three months, partnering with the Israel Defense Forces to anchor the causeway to the shore in Gaza. The ultimate goal is to transform the pier into a full-time commercial operation that can be used by other countries and non-governmental organizations.

The British Navy support ship RFA Cardigan Bay is also sailing from Cyprus to assist in the construction of the temporary pier. Once established, the World Food Programme (WFP) will support the distribution of aid, with USAID working alongside the United Nations to ensure its delivery to Gaza.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) reporting that all 2.2 million people in Gaza do not have enough food to eat. Half of the population is on the brink of starvation, and famine is imminent. The death toll from Israel’s bombardment continues to rise, further exacerbating the crisis.

Despite the ongoing conflict, negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage exchange are underway. Hamas is considering a new framework proposed by Egypt, which calls for the release of 33 hostages kidnapped from Israel in exchange for a pause in hostilities in Gaza. Israel’s allies, including the US, have warned against a potential Israeli military operation in southern Gaza’s Rafah due to the potential for civilian casualties.

While the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, acknowledges some progress in getting aid to Gaza, he emphasizes that it is not enough to address the humanitarian crisis. Human rights agencies have repeatedly highlighted Israel’s severe restrictions on aid deliveries, resulting in relief barely trickling into the strip. Before the conflict, around 500 trucks of supplies entered Gaza daily.

As the US military continues to build the floating pier, it remains to be seen how this move will impact the ongoing tensions between Israel, Hamas, and the international community. The US’s commitment to providing aid to Gaza, despite Hamas’s opposition, underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for international support to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.