Israeli officials prefer the UN as the main channel for Gaza's humanitarian aid, expressing readiness for escalated support. The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are mediating a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The United Nations special rapporteur to Palestine recently responded after the US issued sanctions against her for criticizing their support of Israel.

Israeli officials have signaled they want the United Nations to remain the key avenue for humanitarian deliveries in Gaza, the deputy head of the World Food Programme said on Friday, noting the work of the US aid group was not discussed.

Ten Palestinians were reported killed Friday waiting for rations in Gaza, adding to the nearly 800 killed seeking aid in the last six weeks, according to the UN, with Israel's army saying it issued troops new instructions following the repeated reports of deaths.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the conflict with Hamas is ongoing, asserting that a temporary ceasefire will not deter Israel's goal of dismantling Hamas's military and governance in Gaza.

Operationally, the Israeli campaign was indeed impressive. For 12 days, the Israeli air force ruled Iranian skies without losing a single plane. Any euphoria, however, is premature and discordant. Iran has not vanished as an enemy. And the routine state of affairs to which Israel has returned is not peacetime, but continuing war in Gaza.

Trump urges Israel to "make the deal in Gaza" as envoy Ron Dermer heads to White House meetings, while Israel claims Hamas blocks return of 50 hostages held since Oct. 7.

A majority of Israelis want an end to the fighting in return for the release of hostages, while right-wing members of the government want to keep going, saying Hamas remains undefeated.