Gaza Kite Ultimatum Expires as Katz Orders Forceful Response to Every Launch

Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel's ultimatum over balloons and kites launched from Gaza toward Negev communities had expired. Speaking at a security assessment with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and other senior commanders, Katz said every new launch would be treated as terrorism and answered forcefully. He said responses would target organizers, perpetrators, launch sites and supporting infrastructure. Under directives attributed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Katz, the IDF may use all necessary means, including evacuating residents from areas used for launches. Katz said Israel would not allow the pre-October 7 harassment of southern communities to return.