Hamas warned by Pentagon against attacking US troops construction Gaza Pier
There are concerns about U.S. troops becoming involved in the Israel-Hamas conflict shortly after an alleged mortar attack damaged the maritime dock.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has mentioned that U.S. service members constructing a maritime pier off the coast of Gaza could be at risk of attack while building the floating dock to facilitate humanitarian aid access to the famine-stricken territory.
During a House Armed Services Committee meeting on April 30, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) asked Mr. Austin about the potential for armed conflict between U.S. troops and Hamas terrorists, to which Mr. Austin replied, “It’s possible, yes.”
Mr. Gaetz further inquired if U.S. service members on the pier could return fire if attacked, to which Mr. Austin confirmed that all deployed troops in the area usually carry guns and have the right to defend themselves.
The plan to construct the pier in the Mediterranean Sea was announced by President Joe Biden in March during his State of the Union address.
Although Mr. Austin reiterated that there wouldn’t be U.S. troops on the ground, Mr. Gaetz raised concerns about the distinction, stating that Americans perceive “boots on the ground” as active involvement in conflict or being in harm’s way.
‘Dangerous Effort’
The floating dock is expected to be operational in early May and will assist in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza by sea, according to Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh.
The Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) will include a causeway attached to the shore and logistic support vessels transporting aid from the pier to the causeway.
Once completed, the pier is anticipated to facilitate the daily delivery of at least 90 trucks of aid, potentially increasing to 150 truckloads per day or approximately 2,000,000 meals once fully operational.
However, some lawmakers, including Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), have questioned the value of the project due to the risk posed by Hamas terrorists to U.S. troops.
Sen. Wicker criticized the project as a costly and risky endeavor, with U.S. troops potentially in harm’s way due to Hamas rockets.
Concerns about U.S. troops being involved in the Israel-Hamas conflict were highlighted after an alleged mortar attack caused minimal damage near the marshaling yard area associated with the pier construction.
The attack occurred on April 24 while U.S. ships involved in the construction were offshore. Despite no U.S. forces being within mortar range, United Nations officials visiting the site had to seek shelter. No injuries were reported.
While no group took responsibility for the attack, a Hamas spokesperson warned of resistance against any external force protecting the pier, considering it an occupying force and aggression.
