Chief of UNRWA denounces 'deliberate famine' in Gaza

The chief of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees), Philippe Lazzarini, has denounced the escalating "deliberate famine" in Gaza after 50 days of an Israeli-imposed blockade on aid.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Lazzarini focused on the "collective punishment" of Gaza’s residents.

"Two million people - the majority of whom are women and children - are subjected to collective punishment, and the wounded, sick, and elderly are deprived of medicine and healthcare.

"Gaza has become a land of despair. Hunger is spreading and worsening, deliberately and man-made," he added.

Israel imposed an aid block into Gaza on March 2, abandoning a two-month ceasefire with Hamas.

Israel officials have vowed that aid deliveries will not resume until the remaining hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks are released.

"The injured, sick and elderly are being deprived of medical supplies and care," he emphasised. "Humanitarian aid is being used as bargaining chips and weapons of war," he continued, calling for the resumption of humanitarian aid delivery, the release of hostages, and the establishment of a new ceasefire.

Israel has repeatedly denied using starvation as a weapon, calling the new siege a security measure.