Israeli Security Cabinet Condemns Gaza Violations, Demands Zero Tolerance for Incendiary Balloons

The Israeli Security Cabinet expressed strong criticism over ongoing violations from Gaza, emphasizing that even incendiary balloons must not be tolerated. This comes amid a looming deadline in about three weeks for Hamas to begin disarming, according to a timeline presented by Jared Kushner. The cabinet's frustration was voiced during a recent meeting where members debated the response to provocations from Gaza.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for a significant escalation in Israel's response, stating, "For every incendiary balloon, we must count the bodies of terrorists. Enough with proportional responses, both in Gaza and against the Palestinian Authority, which should be erased." Minister Orit Struck advocated for reversing the involvement of the Peace Council and preventing any additional forces from entering Gaza. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich questioned the presence of Hamas in Gaza, asking, "How can Hamas exist in Gaza?"

Defense Minister Israel Katz clarified that there is no tolerance for Hamas's violations, declaring, "There is no containment in Gaza. We must not allow them any balloons or kites." The Peace Council also condemned Hamas's actions, emphasizing that all terrorist activities from Gaza, including kite launches, must cease.

These discussions occur against the backdrop of the Kushner plan's timeline and Israel's ultimatum demanding an end to provocations. Israeli political and security officials are closely monitoring Hamas's behavior as the next critical test of the Gaza agreements approaches.