RAMALLAH, June 25, 2025 (WAFA) – Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, described the situation in the Gaza Strip—amid what he called a genocide carried out by Israel—as " absolutely horrific."

In a press statement, Lazzarini said international attention to Gaza has dramatically declined since Israel began its military strikes on Iran on June 13.

“Israeli attacks continue daily in Gaza, with civilians are still being forcibly displaced,” he said, adding that people feel completely trapped due to the aid system imposed 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,” he stressed.

Lazzarini urged for an urgent de-escalation in a region that "cannot afford another war," expressing hope that a ceasefire could pave the way for renewed efforts to establish a truce in Gaza, secure the release of detainees, lift the siege, and ensure uninterrupted large-scale humanitarian assistance.

UNRWA demonstrated its ability to combat hunger during previous ceasefires, and confirmed that humanitarian aid remains ready and waiting at Gaza’s borders for entry.

Y.S