IDF: Israeli response to Hamas arson balloons could get tougher

IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus says the overnight Israeli strikes on Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip were more intense than previous sorties, and could increase if the Palestinian terrorist group continues to launch “arson balloons” into Israeli territory.

“We struck at a greater intensity, with the intended message for Hamas to understand that we will not allow this situation to continue,” Conricus tells reporters. “They [incendiary devices] may look like toys but I can assure they are not toys, they are weapons intended to kill and to inflict damage.”

He says that so far Israel had sought to warn off those launching the airborne devices but that could change.

“We have warned verbally, we have fired various munitions in close proximity to (them), we have fired various munitions on various related supporting infrastructure and equipment, vehicles et cetera, related to efforts to launch kites — that may not remain the situation,” Conricus says.