Israel threatens stronger Gaza strikes after about 10 kites cross border
What's new: Israel linked the launches to Hamas despite no explosives, while Gaza officials reported fresh deadly strikes in central areas.
Israel threatened to intensify military action in Gaza after about 10 kites, drones and balloons were recovered near the border in recent days, including four found near Nahal Oz and one shot down by the army. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that if the launches continue, Israel could step up targeted operations and evacuate people from launch areas. Israeli media, citing military assessments, said Hamas was believed to be behind the launches, possibly to test Israel’s response. Hamas denied involvement, calling the kites children’s toys from displacement camps and accusing Israel of using them as a pretext for more airstrikes. Gaza officials and local media reported new deaths in central Gaza.