In response to escalating international criticism and humanitarian concerns, the Israeli military has implemented a limited pause in fighting in Gaza's populated areas. This tactical move aims to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid and alleviate famine conditions amid ongoing conflict and failed ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has accused Israel of denying aid to starving Gazans but says Australia is not about to move to recognising a Palestinian state.

MADURO’S PRICE FOR PRISONERS: Chevron will be allowed to resume drilling operations in Venezuela, The Wall Street Journal’s Alex Leary, Vera Bergengreun and Keyal Vyas report, days after Caracas released 10 Americans and a spate of political prisoners as part of a multicountry prisoner swap with the United States.

Israel says it’s acting ‘according to international law’, and accuses Hamas of engineering a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

For years, Gazans haven’t had free access to this precious natural resource. Israeli limits on fishing activities have fluctuated with tensions with Hamas, with limits of just three nautical miles and even previous total bans on fishing imposed at times.

France defended its decision to recognise Palestinian statehood amid domestic and international criticism on Friday, including against the charge that the move plays into the hands of militant group Hamas.

Netanyahu, Trump blame Hamas for ‘breakdown’ of talks • Mediators Qatar and Egypt say such ‘disengagement’ is normal in complex

Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience. Follow for live updates.