Kathmandu— At least three Palestinians were killed in separate Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, according to medics and local media reports. The strikes come as Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz renewed his threat to expel Palestinians from any area within Gaza where kites or balloons are being flown, claiming they pose a security risk. While a US-brokered ceasefire came into effect in October 2025, deadly Israeli strikes have continued, and Palestinian authorities accuse Israel of undermining broader peace efforts. The Israeli military maintains the attacks target Hamas fighters.

Escalating Violence Despite Ceasefire

The ongoing Israeli attacks have resulted in over 1,300 Palestinian deaths and more than 4,000 injuries since the ceasefire agreement was reached, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. In comparison, the Israeli army has reported five deaths among its personnel and one civilian contractor during the same period. These figures represent a continuation of violence that began with attacks in October 2023, which have resulted in over 73,400 Palestinian fatalities and more than 174,400 injuries.

Threats Over Kite Flying

Defence Minister Katz reiterated his stance during a high-level security meeting with military officials. He stated that the Israeli army would “use all necessary tools, including evacuating Gaza residents from any area or neighborhood from which [kite and balloon] launches are carried out.” Earlier, Katz posted on X, stating that balloons and kites would be treated as drones – regardless of whether they carry explosives – prompting parents to discourage their children from flying them.

Military Objectives and Demilitarization Plans

The Israeli military claims the latest air strikes in Khan Younis targeted Hamas fighters, specifically a commander alleged to have been involved in holding three Israeli hostages. Despite efforts by the US to advance the ceasefire, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, Israel’s military chief, affirmed on Tuesday that plans to demilitarize Gaza and disarm Hamas would continue “using all necessary means.” Palestinian authorities contend that Israel is intentionally undermining broader peace initiatives proposed by US President Donald Trump, which include a full Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza and the disarmament of Hamas.

The situation in Gaza remains volatile as strikes persist despite the ceasefire agreement, with both sides accusing each other of hindering progress towards a lasting resolution.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.