A U.S.-backed mechanism for distributing aid into Gaza should take effect soon, Washington's ambassador to Israel said on Friday ahead of President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East, but he gave few details.

Two months after Israel blocked all aid to Gaza, U.S. and Israeli officials are considering a new food distribution plan. The U.N. says it is unworkable.

A group of American security contractors, ex-military officers and humanitarian aid officials is proposing to take over the distribution of food and other supplies in Gaza based on plans similar to ones designed by Israel.