Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced that "our planes currently flying in Lebanese airspace carry heavier bombs for more distant targets," considering that "this escalation in our operations against Hezbollah is just one degree out of ten." Yoav Gallant also mentioned that he spoke with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about "the activities of the Israel Defense Forces, including the successful operation carried out to release the two hostages held in Gaza." Gallant stated, "We also discussed the ongoing threats and attacks conducted by Hezbollah," noting that "Israel will not tolerate attacks on its citizens. We will ensure the safe return of our communities to the north, and we are prepared to do so via diplomatic or military means."