Britain said on Friday it had delivered aid to Gaza via a floating pier for the first time, using the temporary pier installed by the United States to transport shelter kits into the enclave.

The first of 8,400 shelter coverage kits – temporary shelters made up of plastic sheeting – have arrived in Gaza, alongside aid from the U.S. and UAE., it said.

"UK aid is now being delivered to people through the temporary pier off Gaza," British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement. "More aid will follow in the coming weeks, but we know the maritime route is not the only answer. We need to see more land routes open."

(With input from Reuters)