Israeli politicians aimed their rhetoric in Iran’s direction on Saturday evening, vowing Tehran would “pay a price” for a drone attack by Tehran’s Lebanese proxy Hezbollah that targeted the home of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as the Islamic Republic sought to downplay its ties to what the premier’s office has said was an attempted assassination.
Three drones were launched from Lebanon in the attack targeting the prime minister’s private residence on Saturday morning. Two were intercepted over Rosh Hanikra and Nahariya, but the third exploded in the central seaside town of Caesarea, known for its high-end villas and Roman ruins.
The premier and his wife were not home at the time of the attack.
An Axios report said that the drone hit the prime minister’s house. “This is the first time since the beginning of the war that a target affiliated directly with Netanyahu has been hit,” it reported, without elaboration. The Guardian also said the house was hit and sustained “superficial damage.”
The Kan public broadcaster reported that property tax officials and a gardener had visited Netanyahu’s home after the attack.