Aid for the People of Gaza
In a significant move to bolster humanitarian efforts in the Middle East, the United States is involved in creating a maritime humanitarian corridor to Gaza, with the construction of a temporary pier for aid transfer. This initiative is part of a broader international effort to provide much-needed assistance to the people of Gaza.
During a recent briefing, Daniel Dieckhaus, Response Director at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, Deputy Commander of the United States Central Command, highlighted the pivotal role of Cyprus in this operation. Cyprus is playing a significant role in coordinating international efforts to ensure the smooth delivery of aid. The island nation is providing essential infrastructure, including ports and storage facilities, and keeping all parties aligned in their mission.
The officials stressed that the US’s involvement and the pier’s construction are designed to complement existing aid channels rather than replace them. They also noted the temporary nature of the construction and confirmed coordination with the Palestinian Authority to facilitate the transfer of humanitarian aid.
Responding to inquiries about Cyprus’s contributions, Dieckhaus praised the country for facilitating the use of its port facilities and for its role in organizing a multinational core. He acknowledged that Cyprus is leading the coordination among various entities, including the US, UK, EU, and United Arab Emirates. “There are many other countries that are involved, so Cyprus is helping – coordinating, getting everyone on the same page, on the same schedule,” Dieckhaus added.
Dieckhaus also mentioned the close collaboration with the European Union, indicating that their active participation is crucial and expected to grow as operations progress. Ongoing discussions with the EU and other donors aim to increase both participation and volume of assistance.
Vice Admiral Cooper expressed his gratitude towards the Cypriot government for its leadership and support, stating that their role has been instrumental in enabling excellent coordination with all international partners.
The American officials announced that the construction of a pier on the Gaza coast is nearing completion, which will fully activate the maritime corridor. Humanitarian aid and goods from various countries are currently arriving in Cyprus for inspection before being shipped to Gaza. Once there, humanitarian organizations will manage the distribution process. “We continue working to ensure lifesaving assistance reaches civilians in need,” they affirmed, highlighting that aid will be transported through all available routes—sea, land, and air.
Cooper detailed the imminent readiness of the pier and its exclusive use for delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. He emphasized that this maritime route is an addition to existing land routes and assured that no American military personnel would be present in Gaza, with collaboration continuing with the United Nations for distribution efforts.
