A wave of violence has swept through the Gaza Strip as Israeli bombardments have claimed the lives of approximately 30 people, including children, according to the civil defense agency. Hamas announced that indirect negotiations for a truce were set to resume in Qatar on Friday.
The Israeli military confirmed that its air force struck around 40 Hamas gathering points over the previous 24 hours, with some targets previously used as schools. However, the civil defense agency denied this claim, accusing the military of preventing aid from reaching medical staff and patients at a hospital in the northern town of Beit Lahia.
Israel’s ongoing bombardment of north Gaza has raised concerns about a humanitarian crisis, with reports suggesting that the area is facing a siege-like situation aimed at permanently displacing its population. UN human rights experts have warned that this approach is part of an effort to pave the way for Gaza’s annexation.
Despite ongoing violence, Hamas said indirect negotiations with Israel were set to resume in Qatar for a truce and hostage release deal. The talks aim to ensure a complete cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of occupation forces.
The latest escalation comes as Israel continues its three-month offensive in the north of the territory. The situation remains volatile, with militants firing rockets towards Israel from Gaza.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/03/about-30-killed-in-israeli-attacks-on-gaza-as-truce-talks-set-to-resume