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In a statement on Gaza, Lazzarini said the use of food and aid as a weapon is spreading hunger and hopelessness.

He noted that a full blockade has been in place for over a month: “Israeli authorities continue to block the entry of basic necessities (food, medicine, fuel) – collective punishment. People are dying of hunger, chaos and looting have returned.”

Lazzarini said that yesterday, a man fired a gun into the air at the UNRWA Distribution Center, prompting thousands to gather; the center and nearby buildings were looted and damaged.

“This is not an isolated incident,” he added. “The tight siege is a sign of civil order breaking down. People are exhausted, trapped on a tiny piece of land. Aid must be allowed in and the siege must end.”