Tue Jan 07 01:47:33 IST 2025: ## WFP Condemns Israeli Attack on Aid Convoy in Gaza as Truce Talks Continue

**GAZA CITY, January 6** – The World Food Programme (WFP) strongly condemned an Israeli attack on one of its clearly marked convoys near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint on January 5th. While no casualties were reported, the WFP described the incident as “unacceptable,” highlighting the endangerment of its staff and the damage to its vehicles. This incident comes amidst a continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing Israeli attacks and a harsh winter.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering death toll. The Gaza Health Ministry reported at least 49 deaths in the previous 24 hours, bringing the total Palestinian death toll since October 2023 to 45,854. Dozens more have been injured in recent Israeli bombardments, including children. The Palestinian Civil Defence reported recovering the bodies of four individuals killed in the attacks. Adding to the suffering, eight displaced Palestinians have reportedly died from the cold in recent weeks, with fears the number will rise.

The Gaza Government Media Office blamed the Israeli occupation, along with the US administration and supporting countries, for the deteriorating humanitarian situation, calling it a genocide and appealing for urgent international intervention.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire continue. Hamas has reportedly offered to release 34 Israeli captives in the first phase of a potential deal, which would also involve the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, the fate of some of the Israeli captives remains uncertain, with Hamas acknowledging some may have been killed in the fighting. Reports indicate that the Mossad chief postponed a trip to Doha to finalize the deal, pending Hamas’s response to a proposal. Incoming US President Donald Trump reiterated his threat of severe consequences if the captives are not released by his inauguration on January 20th. The International Criminal Court is also pursuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

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