Fri Jan 03 16:42:47 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Death Toll Rises Amid Renewed Israeli Strikes and Stalled Ceasefire Talks

**DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip —** At least 30 Palestinians, including children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes overnight, bringing the 24-hour death toll in Gaza to 56, hospital staff reported Friday. The strikes, which hit several locations in central Gaza including Nuseirat, Zawaida, Maghazi, and Deir al Balah, prompted renewed calls for a ceasefire as negotiations remain stalled. Among the victims was freelance journalist Omar al-Derawi.

The Israeli army, while not commenting directly on the latest strikes, stated it had targeted Hamas gathering points and command centers throughout Gaza. They claimed measures were taken to minimize civilian casualties. However, this claim is contested by reports of strikes hitting a declared humanitarian zone and killing civilians including children.

Israel issued a fresh warning to residents of a central Gaza area, announcing imminent attacks following rocket launches toward Israeli territory. Simultaneously, Israel reported intercepting a missile launched from Yemen, triggering air raid sirens in Jerusalem and central Israel. No injuries or damage were reported from this incident.

Despite the ongoing violence, ceasefire negotiations are expected to resume Friday. A delegation from Israel’s Mossad, Shin Bet, and military is traveling to Qatar to continue talks, which have repeatedly failed to produce a lasting resolution since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, with a Hamas attack on Israel.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in devastating consequences: over 45,500 Palestinians killed in Gaza according to the territory’s Health Ministry (which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians), approximately 17,000 militants killed according to the Israeli military (without providing evidence), and the displacement of roughly 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million. The war also continues to affect hostages in Gaza, with around 100 still held captive, at least a third believed to be deceased. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides continuing their offensive actions.

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