Defense Minister Katz Orders Strong Action Against Gaza Balloon and Drone Attacks

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Sunday that he has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to take strong measures against the launching of balloons, kites, and drones from Gaza toward Israeli border communities. Katz emphasized that all necessary steps must be taken, including targeting Hamas leaders responsible for organizing and executing these attacks, evacuating neighborhoods and areas used for launches, and dismantling the terror infrastructure in Gaza. He stated, "We consider every launch a military act, and anyone involved in organizing, launching, or enabling these attacks will be dealt with immediately and severely."

These remarks came after four kites were found in the western Negev region, raising concerns in the Gaza border area that they originated from Gaza. Local officials have called on the IDF to respond promptly to such threats, insisting that the military must locate and neutralize every kite in real time, not after they land. Uri Epstein, head of the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council, described the kites as being attached to strings stretching kilometers and warned against normalizing these attacks. He stressed that every kite crossing into Israeli territory demands a response, and failure to act sends a message that such actions are permissible. Epstein demanded an immediate investigation and assured timely responses to prevent recurrence.

The Defense Minister's directive signals a heightened Israeli military stance against the ongoing low-level aerial attacks from Gaza, aiming to curb the persistent threat to civilian communities near the border.