Israel threat on Gazan children's kites 'outrageous' - UN

The United Nations has condemned Israel's threat to expel residents from areas where children launch kites, drones, and balloons from Gaza, calling it "outrageous rhetoric". A UN spokeswoman stated that this is unacceptable and shows disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law. Israel has warned Hamas that it will intensify operations in Gaza if the launches continue.

Hamas has denied the claims, stating that the kites are launched by children looking for innocent childhood amidst the rubble. Israeli media reported finding four kites in communities near the Gaza border on Saturday, with one shot down by the army on Sunday. The Israeli military believes Hamas is behind the launches, which do not carry explosives but may have been testing Israel's response.

The incidents have revived memories of previous waves of incendiary kites and balloons launched from Gaza, sparking fires in southern Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Hamas that if the launches do not cease, the IDF will take action against those responsible and evacuate the population from affected areas.

Hamas accused Israel of using the kites as a pretext for air strikes in central Gaza, resulting in three deaths. Meanwhile, a far-right Israeli MP was caught demolishing a Palestinian memorial in the West Bank while under military escort, an act condemned by both the army and Israeli politicians. Israeli settlers in the West Bank also attacked AFP journalists reporting on tensions with Palestinians, injuring at least five people.