IDF Chief Visits Gaza, Warns Hamas Against Renewed Kite Terror Attacks

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir visited the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, addressing the recent resurgence of incendiary kite launches from Gaza into southern Israel. The visit included a tour of the area with Southern Command Chief Major General Yaniv Asor, Gaza Division Commander Brigadier General Liron Batito, and other brigade and battalion commanders. During the visit, Zamir reviewed the operational situation and praised the troops for their ongoing defense of Israeli civilians.

Zamir highlighted the ongoing multi-front conflict Israel has faced since the October 7 attacks nearly three years ago, spanning Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and other arenas. He emphasized Israel’s significant achievements in weakening enemy capabilities and infrastructure, while maintaining readiness for continued conflict. Zamir reiterated Israel’s ultimate goal of demilitarizing Gaza and dismantling Hamas’s military power through all necessary means.

Regarding the kite attacks, Zamir delivered a firm message: Israel has learned from past experiences and will not tolerate threats as it did on October 6, 2023. He warned Hamas against rebuilding its terrorist infrastructure and vowed to act decisively to neutralize emerging threats. Zamir also acknowledged the concerns of Israeli residents near Gaza and assured that IDF forces remain vigilant and active in preventing terror activities.

The day before, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a zero-tolerance policy toward kite and balloon launches from Gaza, equating them with drone attacks regardless of explosives. Katz stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and he have instructed the IDF to take strong measures to end these attacks. Katz criticized previous military tactics that allowed Hamas to regain positions and stressed the establishment of a secure buffer zone controlled by the IDF to protect soldiers and civilians. Netanyahu and Katz jointly warned Hamas that if the attacks continue, Israel will intensify countermeasures and evacuate populations from launch areas.

This visit and the accompanying statements underscore Israel’s commitment to preventing renewed terror attacks from Gaza and maintaining pressure on Hamas to cease hostilities.