A US Navy vessel bound for the eastern Mediterranean to assist in setting up a pier for Gaza aid encountered a setback last week when it was compelled to retreat due to an engine room blaze, a Navy representative disclosed.

The USNS 2nd LT John P. Bobo, tasked with delivering personnel and equipment, reported the incident on Thursday while en route, prompting an evacuation of the area and swift extinguishing efforts by the crew.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the ship managed to return to Jacksonville, Fla., for further evaluation under its own propulsion, albeit utilizing only one engine.While the exact impact of this delay on the construction of the floating pier remains uncertain, the Pentagon remains steadfast in its commitment to having the system operational by late April or early May.

Despite this setback, the mission to support Gaza aid efforts continues, with multiple Navy ships and Army watercraft en route to the region as part of the Joint Logistics over the Shore initiative. Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder assures that the construction timeline remains unaffected by the incident.