Jerusalem, August 24: Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to take strict action against any balloons or kites coming from Gaza. He clarified that any such items will be treated as drones, regardless of whether they contain explosives.
Katz stated on the social media platform X, “Prime Minister Netanyahu and I have directed the IDF to adopt a zero-tolerance policy regarding kites and balloons launched towards the Negev region from Gaza. There will be no leniency in these matters. If these activities continue, we will take strong measures to completely halt them. Any balloon or kite will be regarded as a drone, whether or not it is explosive.”
He emphasized, “I am not Yoav Gallant. I will not allow a repeat of the policy from October 6, nor will I tolerate threats from the sky or activities near the border fence.”
Katz explained that instead of the repeated raids during the war that allowed Hamas to return to the same areas, a robust and clear security zone has been established in collaboration with the military. This area is free from civilian populations and terrorist structures, monitored and controlled by the Israeli army to ensure the safety of soldiers and settlements.
He assured that this security arrangement will not be weakened or sidelined in any way. In light of potential threats, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have also conducted a high-level review meeting. The meeting included the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the head of the National Security Council, and senior IDF officials.
Following the meeting, a joint statement warned Hamas that if attacks via drones, balloons, and kites from Gaza do not cease immediately, the IDF will intensify targeted strikes against those responsible for these attacks.
The statement also noted that populations in areas used for launching drones, kites, and balloons will be evacuated to facilitate effective action against terrorist activities.
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