Four kites cross from Gaza into Israel, southern Israeli officials call for strong IDF response

The IDF confirmed Saturday that four kites, believed to have originated from the Gaza Strip, were found in the Kibbutz Nahal Oz area within 24 hours. While the IDF stated no suspicious items were found and there was no public danger, officials from southern Israeli communities are demanding a stronger response.

• Uri Epstein, head of the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council, stated, "We demand that the IDF act against every kite that crosses into Israeli territory... In real time."
• The Atid LaOtef movement urged investigation into the incidents, noting, "Four kites in less than 24 hours join a series of similar incidents in recent weeks."
• MK Avigdor Liberman of Yisrael Beytenu also called for stronger action, warning that "whoever allows explosive balloons and kites will receive rockets and missiles," drawing parallels to the period before October 7.