Israel Katz threatens Gaza residents over balloon and kite launches

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Sunday issued a fresh warning against the launching of balloons, kites and drones from the Gaza

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Sunday issued a fresh warning against the launching of balloons, kites and drones from the Gaza Strip, saying Israel would take what he described as forceful measures against those responsible. His remarks included threats to target Hamas figures and operatives allegedly involved in the launches, as well as to evacuate residential areas from where such objects are launched.

The warning came after Israeli media reports claimed that several kites launched from Gaza had recently crossed into areas near Israeli settlements surrounding the enclave. According to those reports, the kites landed near settlements but were not carrying explosives or other dangerous materials.

In a statement reported by Israel Hayom, Katz said he had directed the Israeli military to respond strongly to the launching of balloons, kites and drones from Gaza. He said the army should take steps to prevent such launches and hold those involved responsible.

Katz said the proposed measures could include targeting Hamas leaders accused of organising the launches, as well as the individuals who carry them out. He also threatened the evacuation of neighbourhoods and areas identified as locations from which balloons, kites or drones are launched.

The Israeli defence minister characterised every such launch as a “military action,” regardless of whether the objects were carrying explosives. He warned that Israel would pursue individuals who organise, conduct or allow the launches to take place.

“A balloon is like a kite, and a kite is like a drone, whether it carries explosives or not,” Katz said, underscoring Israel’s intention to treat the launches as security threats.

The comments have raised concerns because any military response involving residential neighbourhoods could further endanger civilians in the densely populated Gaza Strip. Evacuations in Gaza have repeatedly resulted in large-scale displacement, while the territory continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis following years of conflict.

The latest threats come amid the broader Israeli military offensive in Gaza that began in October 2023. According to figures cited in the report, more than 73,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 174,000 injured since the beginning of the offensive.

The conflict has caused extensive destruction across Gaza, with residential areas, infrastructure and public facilities heavily affected. Large numbers of Palestinians have also been repeatedly displaced from their homes during military operations.

Katz’s latest statement indicates that Israel intends to respond to even non-explosive airborne objects launched from Gaza as potential military threats. His warning also places Hamas members and civilians living in areas allegedly used for such launches at risk of further Israeli military action.

The situation highlights the continuing tensions along the Gaza-Israel border and the potential for further escalation as Israeli authorities respond to activities they regard as security threats. Meanwhile, civilians in Gaza remain caught in the wider conflict, facing continued displacement, destruction and humanitarian hardship.