Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s orders could force many groups working on global aid to stop their programs. And the White House has approved sending more 2,000-pound bombs to Israel.

The State Department on Friday reportedly issued guidance that it is freezing almost all U.S. foreign assistance — with exceptions for emergency food aid and foreign military financing for two U.S. allies, Israel and Egypt — according to a cable obtained by multiple outlets.

The United States has frozen nearly all foreign aid. The directive from the new Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, includes only two exceptions. Ukraine is uncertain whether it will receive the already approved U.

Israel kept thousands of Palestinians from returning to their homes in northern Gaza as it accused Hamas of violating a fragile ceasefire by changing the order of hostages it has released.

Tens of thousands of Palestinians waited to return to their homes in northern Gaza, voicing frustration after Israel refused to open crossing points.

The hostages include Arbel Yehud - the civilian at the centre of a row which has led to Israel blocking the return of Gazans to northern Gaza.