The United Nations has condemned Israel’s threat to expel Palestinians from areas of the besieged Gaza Strip where children were flying kites. UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani called the threat "outrageous" during a press briefing on Tuesday, August 26, 2026.
Several kites, reportedly not carrying incendiary devices, drifted into southern Israeli communities over the past month. These incidents have recalled similar actions in 2018 when incendiary kites and balloons were launched from Gaza as a protest against the Israeli blockade.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a joint statement warning Hamas that if such launches do not cease immediately, Israeli forces would intensify targeted operations against those responsible.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s Ministry of Health reported that more than 1,280 Palestinians have been killed since an agreement took effect in October. Additionally, seven people were killed in Gaza as an Israeli strike destroyed an aid supply warehouse.
The UN’s condemnation highlights growing international concern over the escalating tensions and humanitarian impact in the region.
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