U.S. reiterates push for humanitarian aid into Gaza, says controversial Israeli remarks unconfirmed

A State Department spokesperson reiterated that the United States is committed to getting humanitarian assistance and food into Gaza while taking steps to prevent diversion or misuse by militant groups.

The spokesperson described the administration’s work to secure aid deliveries as a "North Star," citing efforts tied to the ceasefire achieved earlier. Asked about media reports that Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir told attendees at a dinner that the United States approved bombing food and aid depots, the spokesperson said that report was unconfirmed and that such a statement would contradict U.S. commitments to aid delivery.

Why it matters: More than immediate humanitarian concerns, the flow of aid into Gaza is central to international diplomacy and to U.S. relations with Israel. Claims that a partner government advocated strikes on aid infrastructure, if true, would sharply complicate coordination and public messaging.

Details from the briefing: The spokesperson emphasized support for delivering humanitarian assistance "with safeguards to ensure assistance is not diverted, looted, or misused by terrorist groups such as Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad." When pressed on whether the U.S. has pressed Israel to lift blockade measures, the spokesperson declined to detail private conversations but said U.S. efforts to facilitate aid continue.

What was not decided: The briefing provided no public detail about any direct U.S. demands on Israeli operational decisions or about the exact conditions under which aid convoys will transit specific routes. The spokesperson said negotiations and operational coordination are ongoing.

Forward look: Officials said they will continue to press for humanitarian access and monitor reports about statements by foreign officials. No change in policy was announced at the briefing.