Israel accuses Hamas of planning drone attacks using kites and balloons
The standoff threatens to undermine a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in October 2025 that brought a tentative end to all-out war between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli officials have accused the militant group Hamas of plotting to carry out retaliatory strikes against Israeli territory utilizing kites and balloons, issuing a deadline of Wednesday for Hamas to cease their use or face consequences. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has been ordered to implement a "zero tolerance" policy towards the deployment of kites and balloons originating from Gaza and directed towards the Negev communities, stated Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday, alluding to the region targeted during the October 2023 Hamas attacks that sparked the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
"If the launches persist, forceful measures will be taken to halt this issue," Katz emphasized. "A kite or balloon will be treated identically to a drone, regardless of whether or not it carries explosives."
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- Gaza’s children grew up flying kites. Now Israel says they will be treated as drones thenationalnews.com
- Gaza parents urged to stop kids flying kites after Israel warning to Hamas al-monitor.com
- Gaza parents urged to stop kids flying kites after Israel warning to Hamas dailymaverick.co.za
- Hamas kites: First step in psychological warfare israelnationalnews.com
- Israel alleges Hamas planning to use kites and balloons for fresh attacks, issues warning hindustantimes.com
- Hamas, Gazan NGO cm'tee warn parents to stop children flying kites after Israel threatens strikes jpost.com
- Gaza parents urged to stop kids flying kites after Israel warning to Hamas channelnewsasia.com
