Northern Command Chief MG Rafi Milo commented on the first wave of strikes across Lebanon, saying, “Hezbollah chose the Iranian regime over the State of Lebanon and initiated an attack on our civilians. We were prepared - and they will pay a heavy price."
“We are prepared in both defense and offense. My message to the residents of the north: we will continue to protect you. We have significantly reinforced force deployment along the border and are prepared to receive additional troops. We will not evacuate you."
Milo added, "Shortly after Hezbollah’s rocket fire, in accordance with planning, we launched a first broad wave of strikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon, targeting senior operatives, headquarters, and terrorist infrastructure. We are also acting to evacuate civilians in southern Lebanon ahead of further strikes. The strikes continue - their intensity will increase."