From Netanyahu's Telegram account: "During the operation I was on a state visit to Paris and received reports on the progress of the operation and the dramatic developments of that night. My heart was torn when the news came of the fall of Lt. Gen. Mahmoud Hir a-Din.

I knew him as a fierce warrior who contributed greatly to Israel's security. After his fall I visited with my wife Sarah his wonderful family in the village of Hurfish and we discovered that in addition to being a brave warrior and commander, Mahmoud was also a key pillar in the community in which he lived and contributed greatly to education.

The State of Israel is blessed that people like Mahmoud are among them and mourn the huge loss to his family, the IDF and the state."