Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday hailed the actions of the country’s security forces during a recent clash with a terrorist group in the Gaza Strip, announcing the elimination of the leadership of the “Palestinian Islamic holy war (jihad)”.

Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad reached a ceasefire agreement late Saturday night after nearly five days of fighting in which the Israeli military killed most of the group’s top leadership in a series of airstrikes.

“The business was really perfect. With complete surprise and sustained initiative, we eliminated the entire Islamic Jihad leadership in Gaza, destroyed 17 of its command centers, destroyed dozens of terrorists, attacked missile depots, disabled anti-tank installations and much more,” Netanyahu said.

“Since the government was formed a few months ago, I have repeatedly said: whoever harms us, whether he succeeds or not, will pay with his life,” the Israeli prime minister said. “Today, Israel’s enemies – in Gaza and beyond – know that even if they try to hide, we can and are ready to reach them at any time.”

“This recognition was greatly enhanced during Operation Shield and Arrow. We have changed the script,” Netanyahu said to his office.

Source: CNN, Times of Israel.