GAZA — Israeli Occupation Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has reportedly declared kites launched from Gaza to be an act of war, warning that anyone flying them would be “dealt with forcefully.”
Katz reportedly said kites and balloons launched from Gaza would be treated as national security threats to the Israeli occupation, placing them in the same category as drones and missiles.
The remarks have drawn attention because the objects in question include kites and other lightweight items that can be launched by civilians, including children. Katz also reportedly extended the designation to paper planes, effectively framing even simple objects flown from Gaza as potential security threats.
Under the stated policy, those responsible for launching such objects could face force from the Israeli occupation forces, with Katz’s warning that those involved would be “dealt with forcefully.”
The comments come amid the continuing genocide in Gaza, where the Israeli occupation has faced mounting international scrutiny over its military conduct and the humanitarian conditions affecting Palestinian civilians.
The remarks have also raised concerns over the use of military force against civilians in Gaza, particularly children, in response to objects that are ordinarily associated with childhood activities rather than conventional weapons.
