Defense Minister Benny Gantz visits a major Israeli military drill taking place in Cyprus, which aims to simulate fighting against the Hezbollah terror group in Lebanon.

“This is the height of one of the largest and most extensive exercises we have conducted in years,” Gantz says. The drill in Cyprus is part of the Israel Defense Forces’ monthlong “Chariots of Fire” exercise.

“I was impressed by [the troops], and I say to everyone, to all the citizens of Israel, that we have a trained army ready for the challenges that lie ahead of us in the future,” Gantz says in a video statement.

Gantz thanks Cyprus for hosting the IDF. “This illustrates the depth of the strategic alliance between the two countries. I’m very glad I came here today, and I’m very encouraged by what I saw,” he says.

“The IDF is constantly preparing for operations and various campaigns, in various theaters, and will inflict a severe blow on anyone who seeks to threaten the citizens of the State of Israel,” Gantz says.

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Earlier, IDF chief Aviv Kohavi also toured the drill in the Mediterranean island nation.

“I get the impression that the forces participating in the exercise, from all arms of the IDF, show very high levels of professionalism and readiness for action,” Kohavi says in a statement published by the military.

“Cooperation with the Cypriot military is another way of expressing the IDF’s operational and significant capabilities. This is a key part of the strategic cooperation and strengthening the connection between the IDF and the Cypriot military,” Kohavi adds.

Read more: Times of Israel