Three U.S. Service Members Injured in Non-Combat Accident off Gaza Pier

Three U.S. service members were injured, with one in critical condition, after a non-combat accident related to the U.S.-built pier off Gaza known as JLOTS, or the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore capability, according to U.S. Central Command. Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM deputy commander, stated that the injuries were non-combat-related, with two service members returning to duty and the third receiving care at a local Israeli hospital. The incident occurred aboard the USNS Benavidez, a U.S. Navy cargo ship, and involved a forklift accident. Further details were not immediately released.

In other news, U.S. officials provided an update on aid efforts in Gaza through the Army’s Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore system, with over 506 metric tons of aid transported via the pier since Friday. Humanitarian aid has also been distributed through land-crossing distribution, with Vice Admiral Brad Cooper noting the delivery of over a million pounds of aid to Palestinians in recent days.

Additionally, Israeli Defense Forces have expanded their operations near central Rafah, leading to the evacuation of close to 1 million people from the area. The IDF Commanding Officer Daniel Hagari confirmed the ongoing fighting in the region.

Stay tuned for more updates on the situation in Gaza and the efforts to provide aid and support to those affected by the conflict.