TEL AVIV: Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi issued a stern warning on Monday in response to Iran’s missile and drone attack on the country the previous day, which resulted in minor damage to an airbase.
Speaking during a visit to the Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, where four Iranian ballistic missiles struck during the attack early Sunday, Lt. Gen. Halevi emphasized that such actions by Iran “will be met with a response.” The decision on an Israeli response was made following a meeting of the war cabinet.
“Iran aimed to undermine the strategic capabilities of the State of Israel — a situation unprecedented until now. Our preparedness for Operation ‘Iron Shield’ ensured Iran faced our aerial superiority,” he stated, referring to the military operation aimed at countering Iran’s blitz.
Acknowledging the strength of Israel’s defense capabilities, Lt. Gen. Halevi also expressed appreciation for the support of the United States in facing distant and numerous threats. He emphasized that Israel is assessing its options and will respond to the significant missile, cruise missile, and UAV launch into its territory.
In a separate video statement in English, Lt. Gen. Halevi highlighted that the attack had opened up new opportunities for cooperation in the Middle East and stressed that Iran would face consequences for its actions.
“Over the weekend, Iran conducted a large-scale assault on Israel, launching over 350 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, armed drones, and rockets from Iranian territory, as well as from Iraq, Yemen, and Lebanon, towards Israel,” he stated.
“This attack prompted the activation of a coalition across the Middle East to counter the threat, marking the commencement of the IDF’s Operation ‘Iron Shield,'” Lt. Gen. Halevi concluded.
