Speaking less than two hours after Israel started its preemptive strike on Iran and its nuclear sites, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir on Friday morning said, "These are decisive days....We have launched an attack [on Iran] because we reached the moment - we arrived at the point of no return."

"We cannot wait for another moment to take action - we have no choice," he said.

He stated, "Our distant and recent history has taught us to fight against the ambitions to destroy us, to bow our heads, and to fight for the preservation of our existence."

"Freedom is given to those who are ready to fight for it. I warn anyone who tries to test us, they will pay a heavy price," he cautioned.

Next, he said, "We start this campaign together when one goal is before our eyes - to bring a better future for the State of Israel and its citizens. With faith, unity, and a joint effort, we will win."

Chief of the General Staff overseeing IDF strikes against Iran from the Israeli Air Force situation room (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Chief of the General Staff overseeing IDF strikes against Iran from the Israeli Air Force situation room (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Speaking in a nationally televised address, Zamir declared the launch of Operation Rising Lion, a large-scale military initiative aimed at strategically targeting Iranian regime threats against the State of Israel.

The Chief of Staff emphasized that the operation was initiated because Israel had reached a "point of no return." Referring to lessons learned from history, Zamir underscored that Israel must not ignore existential threats. "We cannot afford to wait for another time to act," he stated.

IDF is prepared to defend the home front

Nevertheless, the IDF is prepared to defend the home front and will continue to conduct its operations with precision and caution. Zamir urged civilians to adhere to official safety instructions and to support IDF troops and security forces.

According to Zamir, the operation has been in preparation for a long time, with extensive efforts undertaken across all branched of the military. Tens of thousands of soldiers are being called up and the IDF is fully deployed along Israel's border.

"I warn that anyone who tries to challenge us will pay a heavy price," Zamir said. "We are entering this operation together with one goal - to ensure a safer future for the State of Israel and its civilians."

Reflecting on Israel's history, Zamir reminded viewers that 77 years after the state's founding in the shadow of the Holocaust, the Jewish nation once again faces a battle for its survival - this time against a powerful regional adversary.

"Beyond the technology, operational means, and methods - we inhibit an additional unique element – the Zionist and Jewish spirit that beats within us," he said. "With this spirit — and faith in our justified path — our actions will speak."