Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), issued a grave warning about the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip amid continued Israeli military assaults.

In a recent press statement, Lazzarini condemned what he described as an ongoing genocide carried out by Israel, calling the conditions in Gaza “absolutely horrific.” He highlighted a sharp decline in international attention to Gaza following Israel’s escalation of military strikes on Iran beginning June 13.

“Israeli attacks continue daily in Gaza, with civilians still being forcibly displaced,” Lazzarini said, emphasizing the dire predicament faced by residents trapped under a blockade enforced by Tel Aviv. “People are asking: should I let my family starve, or risk my life to get humanitarian aid? We are facing a catastrophic situation in Gaza.”

The UNRWA chief urgently called for de-escalation in the region, stressing that the fragile area “cannot afford another war.” He expressed hope that a ceasefire would open the door for renewed negotiations aimed at securing a lasting truce, the release of detainees, lifting the siege, and guaranteeing uninterrupted humanitarian assistance on a large scale.

Lazzarini also pointed out that during previous ceasefires, UNRWA successfully provided critical aid to combat hunger in Gaza and confirmed that humanitarian supplies remain ready and waiting at border crossings to enter the besieged territory.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains one of the most urgent issues facing the international community as calls grow louder for immediate action to alleviate suffering and restore peace. (ILKHA)