Watchdog Report Exposes Biden’s Gaza Pier

August 29, 2024

President Biden’s approval of a floating aid pier in Gaza amidst security concerns prompts heated debate over the project’s risks and benefits.

At a Glance

President Joe Biden approved a floating aid pier in Gaza despite warnings from USAID staff.
The project, known as JLOTS, was decommissioned after 20 days due to weather damage.
The pier aimed to deliver aid efficiently but faced substantial security and operational challenges.
USAID faced criticism for handling and execution issues, despite providing substantial aid during the short operational period.

Biden’s Decision Amid Security Concerns

President Joe Biden approved a plan to construct a $230 million floating aid pier in Gaza, known as the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) system, despite substantial warnings from USAID officials. They advised against the project due to serious security and access challenges that could hinder humanitarian efforts.

Biden’s administration argued that the temporary pier would facilitate delivering a significant volume of humanitarian aid to Gaza, especially vital in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict that started on October 7, 2023. The conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with 96% of Gaza’s population facing food insecurity.

Operational Challenges and Shortcomings

Despite the intent, the JLOTS faced several operational hurdles. USAID staff expressed concerns that the project could detract from “more efficient and proven methods” of aid delivery through land crossings. The floating pier was operational for a mere 20 days before it was decommissioned in mid-July due to “rough weather and high seas” causing structural damage.

Additionally, aid groups withdrew from the project because of significant coordination and security issues, which included looting, attacks on warehouses, and the detainment or shooting of drivers. The U.N. World Food Program ceased its cooperation following an Israeli rescue operation near the pier, which raised neutrality concerns.

Achievements Amidst Criticisms

Despite the setbacks, the Department of Defense and the NSC spokesman Sean Savett claimed that JLOTS had a notable impact during its brief operational period. It managed to deliver aid sufficient to feed 450,000 Palestinians for one month. However, USAID addressed internal warnings by staffing adequately to handle both pier and land routes simultaneously, but this response came too late to overcome the significant early obstacles.

Conclusion: Mixed Results and Future Considerations

The Inspector General concluded that while the JLOTS achieved its initial goal of delivering aid, the project fell short of its promises due to the harsh realities of the conflict environment, adverse weather, and security concerns. The U.S. commitment to the project was questioned as they failed to honor agreements with the World Food Program concerning the pier’s location and security provisions.

The controversial decision to build the pier highlights the complex balancing act faced by U.S. policy in the Middle East—fostering economic growth and providing aid while ensuring regional stability.