Mr. Lazzarini made these comments in a social media post, where he highlighted that the siege, which restricts the entry of food, medicine, water, and fuel into the Palestinians’ occupied territory, has outlasted the blockades of the first war phase.

The UNRWA head emphasized that Palestinians in Gaza rely heavily on imports from Israel for their survival, stating that every day passing without humanitarian aid results in more children going hungry, increased disease spread, and deeper deprivation,” adding that Gaza is nearing an acute hunger crisis.

Current hostilities began with Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, causing 1,195 deaths and over 250 hostages. The ensuing military operations in Gaza have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 50,000 Palestinians.

A short-lived truce which saw some hostages freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, has given way to renewed bombing and ground operations against Gaza, costing hundreds of civilian lives, including children.

Sam Rose, UNRWA’s Acting Director, warned of severe repercussions without a ceasefire, including widespread death, infrastructure damage, health risks, and profound trauma for the 1 million children and 2 million civilians in Gaza.

Labeling the withholding of aid as a form of collective punishment against Gaza’s predominantly young, female, and civilian population, Mr. Lazzarini demanded an end to the siege, the release of remaining hostages by Hamas, and the uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid and commercial supplies into Gaza.