Communicated by Defense Minister's Media Coordinator Jerusalem, 30 January 1997 DM Mordechai: Hizbullah attacks in Lebanon endanger peace Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai issued the following statement this evening (Thursday), 30.1.97: "The attack in southern Lebanon last night was a serious one, and the results were painful. Attacks of this sort, carried out by Hizbullah and other terrorist organizations, could cause a deterioration in the security situation in Lebanon which would have a negative impact on the peace process." Mr. Mordechai also said that responsibility for the attack lies with the Lebanese government, which is responsible for what occurs within its borders, and with all those elements which directly and indirectly aid the terrorist organizations in their activity. The defense minister praised the soldiers and officers of the IDF and the SLA in southern Lebanon, who are performing an important national mission central to the security of Israel and the defense of Israel's northern communities, under difficult conditions. They deserve the appreciation of the Government of Israel and of the entire Israeli people, he said.