US Army Vessels Swept Away Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict
During the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, four US Army vessels supporting a temporary pier for aid delivery to Gaza were swept away due to heavy seas, as reported by the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
What Happened to US Army Vessels?
In a statement, CENTCOM mentioned that during the transportation of humanitarian aid, the floating deck disconnected from the small boat tugging it, causing the vessels to break free from their moorings.
“The vessels broke free from their moorings, with two vessels anchored on the beach near the pier, and the third and fourth vessels beached on the coast of Israel near Ashkelon,” stated CENTCOM.
No injuries were reported, and the pier remains fully functional. The Israeli navy is assisting with the recovery of the vessels, while US personnel will not enter Gaza.
US Efforts and Aid Delivery
The pier, built to alleviate aid delivery restrictions imposed by Israel on Palestinians in Gaza, was completed earlier this month. US President Joe Biden had announced this initiative to provide aid to the Gaza Strip.
As of the latest update, 1,005 metric tons of aid had been delivered from the sea to the beach transfer point, with 903 metric tons distributed to the United Nations warehouse.
The UN World Food Programme has received 97 trucks since the floating dock became operational on May 17, as confirmed by Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres.
Tragic Drone Attack on Gaza School
Tragically, at least 10 individuals, including children, lost their lives in a drone strike on a school in northern Gaza’s Jabalia, where people were seeking shelter.
An eyewitness recounted the heartbreaking loss of lives, including a man and his children who were killed while seeking safety in the school.
The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident, as reported by CNN and local health workers.