Israel Katz warns Hamas over Gaza incendiary kites

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Monday that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have instructed the IDF to adopt a policy of 'zero tolerance' toward the launching of kites and balloons from Gaza toward communities in the Negev. Katz clarified that he makes no distinction between various launch methods, stating, 'The law for balloons and kites is the same as that for drones – with or without explosives.' Criticizing the policies in place prior to October 7, Katz vowed not to allow a return to those approaches. The comments followed the discovery of four kites in the Gaza envelope within 24 hours. According to defense assessments, Hamas is directly behind the launches, allegedly using children and teenagers to test Israeli response patterns and gather intelligence. Security officials have instructed residents of the Gaza envelope not to approach or touch kites, balloons, or drones, warning that the kites could soon be used to carry explosives. The defense establishment stated it is monitoring the situation and will continue its policy of targeted eliminations against those responsible for the launches.