Rome
Italy
Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General On the situation along the Blue Line
Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
The Secretary-General condemns the attacks by Hizbollah across the Blue Line, which resulted in Israeli deaths and injuries and the capture of two Israeli soldiers. This violent act is a blatant breach of the Security Council resolutions 425, 1559, 1655 and 1680.
The Secretary-General calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the Israeli captives. This incident, and subsequent developments, which endanger an already volatile region, demonstrates once again how urgent it is that the Lebanese government extends its control over all Lebanese territory and prevents such attacks across the Blue Line.
It is essential that all concerned exercise maximum restraint at this time to avoid any further escalation. All should respect fully their obligations under international humanitarian law.
The Secretary-General appeals to leaders in the region and beyond to do their utmost to contain this conflict by obtaining the release of the soldiers and pressing for restraint.