The U.S. military is undertaking an ambitious project to build a pier to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The operation involves assembling steel components in Newport News, Virginia, to construct a modular causeway system intended to serve as a lifeline for the residents of war-torn Gaza.
Army, Navy, and civilian stevedores are working around the clock at the Port of Virginia’s Newport News Marine Terminal. Their task is to load the modular causeway pieces and other equipment necessary for establishing the pier and a floating dock positioned two miles offshore. According to U.S. Navy Capt. Jamie Murdock, the aid will be transferred from cargo ships to the pier by U.S. Army watercraft, demonstrating a coordinated military effort to support humanitarian needs.
The MV Roy A. Benavidez, a former Navy supply ship now part of the national ready reserve fleet, has been called into action to transport the pier components to the Eastern Mediterranean. This operation signifies the military’s rapid mobilization to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Israel’s conflict with Hamas has resulted in significant casualties and a dire need for food and medical supplies.
Despite the logistical and operational challenges, including navigating military command jurisdictions and establishing on-ground partnerships for the pier’s anchorage and security, the U.S. military is progressing with the mission. Army Brig. Gen. Brad Hinson highlighted ongoing collaborations with partners in the region, though specific details remain under wraps.
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