A significant portion of humanitarian aid transported from a new $320 million U.S. military-built floating pier off the Gaza coast was stolen on its way to a U.N. warehouse. On Saturday, 11 trucks were looted by Palestinians, with only five reaching the World Food Programme warehouse. No aid was delivered from the pier on Sunday and Monday. The U.N. emphasized the need for improved security and logistics before proceeding with further deliveries.
Israel estimates Hamas is stealing up to 60% of the aid entering Gaza, profiting at least $500 million since October 7. The floating pier was constructed at Ashdod and anchored in Gaza, with 1,000 U.S. personnel involved. The goal is to deliver 500 tons of aid daily, eventually increasing to 150 trucks per day.
Despite Israel's control of the Rafah crossing, Egypt has not cooperated, blocking aid entry from Egypt into Gaza. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz highlighted Egypt's responsibility in preventing a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel resumed commercial trade with Gaza, sending 150 trucks loaded with produce intended for both Hamas and the civilian population.
Read full analysis at Gatestone institute: https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/20658/gaza-aid-stolen
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