Israel’s military chief, asked about a reported Israeli strike that killed a senior adviser in Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in Syria, has declined to comment but said Israeli forces work throughout the region, Reuters reports.

“I will not comment on various actions we take. The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) is working together with other security organisations throughout the Middle East, within the borders of the state, around the borders of the state,” Herzi Halevi told reporters near Gaza when asked about the strike.

“We take whatever action necessary to make it very clear that we are very determined to defend the country, are willing to go far,” Chief of the General Staff Halevi said.