Funding shortages may affect the UN’s ability to maintain aid flows at target levels throughout the Gaza ceasefire deal, according to the organisation’s humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory.

Muhannad Hadi told the Reuters news agency that he was “very happy” with how the first few days had gone, but flagged funding as a concern.

Daily deliveries have surged tenfold since the Sunday ceasefire deal, according to UN data, surpassing the 600 trucks a day target.

“We need immediate funding to make sure that we continue providing the aid for the 42 days, but also after the 42 days, because we’re hopeful that we’ll go from phase one to phase two,” he said, after returning from Gaza earlier this week.

He described scenes of widespread joy and relief across the enclave, with many people smiling and eager to return to the remnants of their homes and find work.

“I’ve received clear messages from the people: they don’t want to continue depending on humanitarian aid. They want to rebuild their lives … We can’t afford to let them down.”

The UN is seeking $4.1bn for the occupied Palestinian territory this year, with nearly 90 percent set to go to Gaza and about 10 percent to the West Bank. It is currently 3.6 percent funded.