Qatar, Turkey and Egypt promise BoP Gaza kite launches into Israel will stop, i24NEWS told
Mediators give assurances as Israel warns renewed launches could derail the Gaza roadmap and draw a severe military response.
Following Israeli pressure and growing concerns that the implementation of the Gaza roadmap could collapse, the mediators Qatar, Turkey and Egypt have conveyed a message to the Board of Peace that the launching of kites from Gaza into Israeli territory will stop, a source close to the body told i24NEWS.
The promise comes after Israel’s defense minister declared on Thursday that Israel’s ultimatum over the launches had expired, warning that every balloon or kite launch from Gaza would be met with a severe response, including the possible evacuation of populations from launch areas.
According to Gaza sources, amid the mounting pressure, Hamas operatives have even gone to schools and displacement centers demanding that the launches stop.
Against the backdrop of the IDF’s expanded strikes in Gaza over the past two weeks, a source close to the Board of Peace tells i24NEWS: “If we do not enter the voluntary disarmament program, there will be an escalation of the conflict that will again end without the complete elimination of Hamas, but with continued international damage to Israel.”
In closed-door conversations with senior Israeli officials, Board of Peace figures are also warning: “You are wasting the short period that remains with the most pro-Israel administration and Congress. The next president and Congress are expected to be far less friendly. This opportunity must not be missed.”