IDF Clears for Release: Hezbollah Explosive Drone Hit Convoy Carrying Northern Command Chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo

The IDF Spokesperson cleared for publication today (Thursday) that several weeks ago, an unusual and serious security incident took place in southern Lebanon, during which Hezbollah launched an explosive drone at a convoy carrying the commander of the Northern Command, Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo. The drone hit the general’s vehicle shortly after he had gotten out of it יחד with his office commander. There were no injuries in the incident.

The incident was kept secret for a long period and was not published in real time. The reason was the desire to avoid harming the security of the forces and fighters operating in the area. Only now, after time has passed and following a renewed review of the incident’s implications, can its details be made public.

In the defense establishment, the case was defined as a localized incident, but one carrying far broader significance. Had the commander of the Northern Command been hurt in the attack, it would have been a significant blow for Israel operationally, psychologically, and strategically — an achievement Hezbollah has sought for many years through attacks on senior defense officials.

About a week and a half ago, data published by the Amit Research and Intelligence Institute said Hezbollah has begun adopting a new strategy known as “hunting commanders.” Under this approach, the organization tracks the movements of senior Israeli officers in order to strike the IDF’s command, control, and defense systems.

As part of that strategy, there were reports of attempted attacks against a launcher from the Iron Dome system, a vehicle attributed to the commander of Brigade 300, as well as combined attacks involving rockets, artillery, and drones at several locations simultaneously. According to assessments, the goal of these actions is to damage the IDF’s command capabilities, disrupt the activity of forces on the ground, and create an ongoing burden on air defense systems along the northern border.

Following recent strikes on convoys, including the incident in which Gen. Milo’s vehicle was hit, changes were made to travel and movement procedures on certain routes in southern Lebanon. The IDF adjusted its mode of operation in the area in order to reduce the risk to forces and commanders operating there.