Israel Vows “Harsh” Retaliation Against Hezbollah After Rocket Attack That Killed 12 Youths

Israeli officials have vowed a “harsh” response to Hezbollah following a rocket attack allegedly launched by the Iran-backed terror group that resulted in the deaths of 12 youths. Despite the threat of retaliation, U.S. officials believe that an all-out war is unlikely.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a “harsh” response against Hezbollah while visiting the graves of the 12 youths killed on Saturday. Kobi Gideon/ GPO

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the nation is preparing an appropriate and severe response to Hezbollah during a speech on Monday at the occupied Golan Heights, the site of the attack.

“These children are our children … The state of Israel will not, and cannot, let this pass,” Netanyahu declared. “Our response will come, and it will be harsh.”

Danny Danon, Israel’s new ambassador to the United Nations, echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments during a “Fox and Friends” appearance on Monday morning. “Our response will be swift, harsh, and painful, and we are now picking the targets,” Danon stated, emphasizing that Hezbollah will “learn their lesson.”

A Druze woman breaks down crying over the death of the kids during Netanyahu’s visit to the Golan Heights. AP

However, Danon also reassured that Israel does not intend to engage in a full-scale war. This aligns with U.S. assessments, as White House spokesman John Kirby reiterated support for Israel while stressing that a broader conflict is not deemed necessary. Kirby condemned the attack on an Israeli soccer field, which also injured 40 others, and underscored that diplomatic measures are preferred over escalation.

Danny Danon, Israel’s new ambassador to the United Nations, said his nation’s response will be “swift, harsh and painful.” FOX News

Since the attack, the Israeli military has conducted several airstrikes in southern Lebanon, including a drone strike on Monday that reportedly killed two Hezbollah operatives. These strikes have targeted Hezbollah’s weaponry and infrastructure, leading to significant destruction.

The IDF identified 11 of the 12 kids killed in Saturday’s rocket attack that hit a soccer field. X/IDF

The ongoing skirmishes have displaced tens of thousands in northern Israel and southern Lebanon. As of Sunday, the conflict has claimed 24 Israeli civilian lives, along with 18 IDF soldiers and reservists.

Netanyahu met with Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Muafak Tarif on Monday. X / @IsraeliPM_heb

The attack also left about 40 others injured, with the victims all under 20 years old. AP

Hezbollah reports that 381 of its members have been killed in Lebanon and Syria, along with numerous civilian casualties.