evidence: PETER MOHAN MAITHRI PIERIS (Sri Lanka) expressed grave concern over the escalation of violence in Gaza and called for the free movement of essential items and humanitarian aid, including fuel, food, medicine, water and electricity to Gaza. He called on all sides to immediately halt violence and take steps to prevent further civilian casualties. He also called on the international community to redouble their support for UNRWA, which is playing a commendable and courageous role in helping vulnerable populations under extremely challenging circumstances. He reiterated a call to keep open a humanitarian corridor to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the civilians in Gaza. Sri Lanka is no stranger to the scourge of terrorism, he said, condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and calling for the immediate release of all hostages taken into Gaza.