Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon stated Sunday that the IDF will continue to fight against rocket fire from Lebanon.

“We will not tolerate firing at us from Lebanon, or to allow a threat of any kind on the lives of Israeli citizens,” Yaalon warned.

“We see the government of Lebanon and the Lebanese army as responsible for the rocket fire shooting this morning and what happens in their territory, and what happened this morning will not be overlooked.”

“The IDF responded by firing, a short while ago, massive shells into the launching area,” Yaalon continued. “If necessary we will act more forcefully. I would not recommend anyone to test our patience and our determination to protect the security of Israeli citizens.”

5 rockets were fired at Israel Sunday morning, but only one hit Israeli soil. The rocket hit an open field near the city of Kiryat Shmona; no injuries were reported. In response, the IDF shelled targets Lebanon, aiming to eliminate the source of the rocket fire. 

Israeli media reports indicate that IDF sources have stated that they believe the rocket fire has stemmed from pro-Palestinian groups based over the border in Lebanon. These reports are still unconfirmed. 

The IDF spokesperson’s office stated Sunday morning that “the IDF responded immediately and powerfully” to the rocket fire, and that it has launched “dozens of shells” at its source.

“The IDF will not tolerate any harm to the residents of the State of Israel,” the IDF stated.

The Israeli Army has also turned to the UN peace-keeping force UNIFIL over the situation, according to official reports. 

Earlier this month, tensions rose between Israel and Lebanon after a Lebanese army soldier shot and killed 31 year-old IDF Master Sergeant Shlomi Cohen. The attacker eventually turned himself in to Lebanese authorities, and will be placed on trial there over the incident, according to Yaalon.