Fri Jan 03 12:16:31 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Death Toll Rises as Israeli Delegation Heads to Ceasefire Talks

**Doha/Gaza City** – At least 35 Palestinians have been killed in renewed Israeli attacks on Gaza, bringing the overall death toll since the start of the current conflict to nearly 46,000. This surge in violence comes as an Israeli delegation travels to Doha, Qatar, for talks aimed at reviving stalled ceasefire negotiations.

Friday saw intense fighting in central Gaza, with Israeli forces killing at least 19 Palestinians, according to medical sources. Al Jazeera reported that the day was marked by heavy gunfire and potential ground operations, following the destruction of buildings by Israeli fighter jets. At least two journalists were among the victims. The Gaza Government Media Office has revised its count of journalists killed since the start of the conflict to 202. In addition, Israeli forces ordered the evacuation of the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahiya.

Earlier, Israeli forces intercepted a missile reportedly fired from Yemen, triggering air raid sirens in Jerusalem and central Israel.

While negotiations are underway in Doha, analysts offer differing perspectives on the prospects for a lasting ceasefire. Sami al-Arian suggests Hamas may be willing to compromise on some demands, citing pressure from mediators. However, Ori Goldberg expresses skepticism, highlighting the lack of significant international pressure on either side and asserting that the ongoing war serves Israeli government interests. Key mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, have been engaged in indirect talks for months.

The current conflict began on October 7, 2023, with Hamas attacks in Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the capture of around 250 Israelis. Approximately 100 captives remain in Gaza, with concerns that a significant portion have perished. The war has caused widespread destruction in Gaza, displacing roughly 90% of the population.

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