Communicated by PM'S Media Advisor Jerusalem, 19 August 1997 PM Netanyahu responds to Katyusha attacks on Northern Israel In the wake of events in the north, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today (Tuesday), 19.8.97, that the immediate task is to halt the cycle of escalation, which does not serve the interests of any side. The Prime Minister said that we want quiet on both sides of the northern border so that Israeli and Lebanese citizens alike can conduct their lives peacefully. However, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would respond severely to any attacks on its citizens, and that it hopes that this message -- in all its implications -- will be understood by the other side. The Prime Minister has cleared his schedule today in order to deal with matters related to the north. He is receiving briefings and holding consultations on this issue.