This is not the time for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas militants, White House national security spokesman John Kirby told CNN on Monday.

"We don't believe that this is the time for a ceasefire," he said. "Israel has a right to defend themselves. They still have work to do to go after Hamas leadership." 

Kirby reiterated the same at Monday's White House press briefing.

"It’s our view that the Israeli Defense Forces need to decide for themselves how they’re going to conduct operations.  We’re not in the business of — of dictating terms to them, and we’re certainly not going to be in the business here from the White House of previewing any — any future operations one way or the other.  That would be inappropriate," Kirby said.

Kirby was asked spefically about a humanitarian ceasefire.

"What we want right now is: make sure Israel has the tools it needs to defend itself and to go after Hamas and that humanitarian assistance keeps flowing," he said. "Now, it’s started, and it’s good thing.  We want to keep it going and keep it sustainable.  That’s what we’re focused on."