Israel has warned Hamas that it could intensify military operations in Gaza if kites, drones and balloons continue to be launched toward Israeli territory.
The warning came on Sunday after Israeli authorities reported a recent increase in the launches. Hamas denied responsibility and said children in Gaza were flying the kites.
Israeli media reported that four kites were found near communities along the Gaza border on Saturday. The Israeli military also said it had shot down one kite on Sunday.
Around 10 kites have reportedly been recovered in the area in recent days.
Israel Threatens Stronger Action
The latest incidents have brought back memories of incendiary kites and balloons launched from Gaza during previous periods of conflict.
Those launches caused fires across agricultural areas in southern Israel and became a notable tactic during earlier tensions.
Israeli officials said the latest kites did not carry explosives. However, Israeli military officials reportedly believe Hamas was behind the launches and may have been testing Israel’s response.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a joint warning after a security assessment with senior military and security officials.
They said Israel would intensify targeted operations against those responsible if the launches continued.
The officials also warned that Israel could evacuate civilians from areas where kites, drones or balloons are launched.
Gaza Border Communities Remain Concerned
The renewed activity has caused concern among communities near the Gaza border.
Many residents in the area experienced the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and remain highly sensitive to signs of renewed threats.
Uri Epstein, a representative of Gaza border communities, said residents would no longer accept assurances that everything would be fine.
He called on the Israeli military to respond before the situation escalates.
Hamas Denies Responsibility
Hamas has rejected Israel’s accusations.
Bassem Naim, a member of the Hamas political bureau, said the kites were launched by children in Gaza who were trying to experience a normal childhood amid the destruction around them.
Hamas also accused Israel of using the kite launches as a justification for military action.
The group said Israeli airstrikes hit central Gaza on Sunday and claimed that three people died, citing Gaza’s civil defence rescue service.
The conflicting claims could further increase tensions as both sides remain on alert.
For Israel, the renewed kite launches raise concerns about potential attacks from Gaza. Hamas, meanwhile, says Israel is using the incidents as a pretext for further strikes.
