@Amy-and-Brian0
It is a way of protection, as it could(!) be fraud, so some more action to be taken. If it is actually fraud, you will be happy the reservation is cancelled by Airbnb. If not, a goodwill guest was marked as fraudster and also looses the reservation. You refer to it as "blocked", but actually see it as: 'a reservation in progress."
But i agree, it can be annoying.
BTW "Awaiting payment" does reserve ("block") the dates for the 24 hour time-limit, as the booking is made allready, just need to completes. I experienced once guest did not make payment and then the dates for 24 hours are not available to anoter person to book. Nothing a host can do, just wait.
Hopefully your case will be sorted out soon by Airbnb.
BTW Still wondering what happens if you click the "message" button ?
Best regards,
Emiel