Kathmandu— Israeli forces killed one Palestinian east of Deir el-Balah in central Gaza on Saturday, while another body was recovered from rubble in the war-torn enclave, according to reports from medical sources and the Gaza Health Ministry. At least five others were wounded in attacks across southern Gaza cities Khan Younis and Rafah over the weekend. The escalating violence comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a 15-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump to end the conflict, stating Israel will not withdraw until Hamas is disarmed.

Recent Casualties and Attacks

The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed Sunday that hospitals received the bodies of two Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, including one recovered from under rubble. QNA reported that several people were wounded when an Israeli tank opened fire on tents sheltering displaced individuals in Khan Younis, critically wounding a woman. In Rafah’s al-Mawasi coastal area, a girl was seriously injured by Israeli army fire. Additionally, Israeli artillery shelled areas east of Khan Younis and wounded multiple people in Gaza City’s Tuffah neighborhood.

Escalating Death Toll

Since Israel launched its military operations against Palestinians in Gaza in October 2023, the overall death toll has reached 73,386 with 174,250 wounded, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry also noted that many bodies remain trapped under rubble and are currently uncounted due to limited access for ambulance and civil defense crews.

Rejection of US Peace Plan

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel has rejected President Trump’s 15-point plan for Gaza, telling a cabinet meeting that Israeli forces “will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed.” This rejection aligns with the position taken last week by the US-led Board of Peace, which also stipulated that an Israeli withdrawal would only occur after complete disarmament of Hamas. As a result, the terms and timeline for Israel’s potential exit from Gaza remain uncertain despite continued casualties.

The situation in Gaza remains volatile as fighting continues and diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire face obstacles.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.