Israeli Defense Minister Declares End to Ultimatum on Gaza Balloon Attacks, Vows Strong Response

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday that the ultimatum set by Israel in response to incendiary balloons and kites launched from the Gaza Strip toward southern Israeli communities has expired. Katz made the declaration during a security briefing with IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the head of the Military Intelligence Directorate, the Home Front Command chief, and other senior defense officials.

Katz stated that from now on, every balloon or kite launch will be treated as a terrorist act and met with a significant military response. He warned that future incidents would provoke broad retaliatory measures targeting the perpetrators, organizers, launch sites, and related infrastructure. Katz emphasized that under the directives of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the IDF will employ all necessary means to neutralize these threats.

He further indicated that these measures could include evacuating populations from areas or neighborhoods used for launching such attacks. Katz stressed that Israel will not allow a return to the tactics and threats against southern communities that occurred before October 7. He concluded by asserting that Hamas or any other group attempting to resume these attacks will face a heavy price.