Brussels/Gaza, (Unib Rashid) – A traditional childhood pastime in Gaza has become the focus of renewed security concerns after several kites flew from the besieged territory into southern Israel over the weekend.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the military to respond “immediately and forcefully” to future kite launches, warning that those involved could face severe action. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Katz also warned that Israeli forces could intensify strikes on areas from which kites, balloons or drones are launched.

Israel has said that paper kites flown by Palestinian children will be treated as weapons of war.

Read that again.

This is the reality of genocide: the total destruction of innocence, freedom and joy.

End all military cooperation with Israel, now.

— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) August 24, 2026

The Israeli military said it found nothing suspicious on the kites that crossed into Israel and confirmed that there had been no danger to the public.

Hamas dismissed the Israeli warnings, saying the kites were merely children’s toys and accusing Israel of using the incident as a pretext for further attacks.

For Gaza residents, the controversy highlights how ordinary childhood activities have become affected by years of conflict and restrictions. Palestinian artist and mother Maysa Yousef said kites have long been part of Gaza’s cultural traditions, with children decorating them in colorful designs and flying them along the coast.

She said restrictions on materials such as paper, glue and art supplies have made it increasingly difficult for children to enjoy even simple toys.

“The war in Gaza has deprived children of a simple toy,” Yousef said, describing kites and balloons as small sources of happiness that have increasingly become associated with security concerns.