Katz Orders IDF to Treat Gaza Kite, Balloon and Drone Launches as Acts of War

Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the IDF to act immediately and forcefully against balloons, kites or drones launched from Gaza toward Gaza-border and western Negev communities. He directed the military to use necessary preventive measures, including targeting responsible Hamas leaders, launch operators and terrorist infrastructure. Katz also called for evacuating neighborhoods or areas used for launches before military action. He said every such launch would be treated as an act of war and that Israel would not return to the security reality that preceded October 7.