"Dear children, you are the heroes of tomorrow, you are the future generation," Maj.-Gen. Rafi Milo, head of the IDF's Northern Command, wrote in an open letter addressed to educational faculty, parents, and students in northern Israel as the new school year began on Monday.
Milo, along with Home Front Command (HFC) chief Maj.-Gen. Shai Kalper and senior officers of the Northern Command, will visit schools throughout the region to meet with students and teachers on Monday.
"In my name, and in the name of every soldier in my command, we will continue to stand guard and ensure that the status quo is not disrupted. Returning home and beginning the school year, even in the shadow of war, is a source of pride. It is a testament to strength, steadfastness, and an unbreakable spirit," he continued.
Since October 7, the IDF's Northern Command has fought to return northern Israel to a safe and secure haven for its residents. Since the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, the IDF has aimed to thwart Hezbollah's attempts to disrupt the newly recovered peace.
Over 70% of residents have returned home to the north, and the new school year will open with nearly 90% of evacuated students returning to schools there.
"Together we will rebuild the north," Milo wrote. "We will breathe life back into every town and continue to build our new, secure reality."
Preparing for returning civilians
HFC and Northern Command installed a total of 1,166 new bomb shelters in the region, including 308 in schools and near public transportation hubs.
To prepare for the return of civilians to the north, the IDF's 91st and 210th Divisions conducted specialized situational assessments alongside the Israel Police and other local authorities to coordinate and bridge any potential gaps that may arise should the security situation deteriorate.
"Together, let us wish our children good luck with the new school year, and pray for the return of all the hostages," the letter concluded.
Notably, Milo served as HFC chief until August.