Air violations across the Blue Line – PRSG statement – Press release

Press Release

UN calls for respect of Blue Line and restraint

after incident in Shebaa Farms vicinity

Beirut, 24 January 2002 (UN Information Centre) – The following statement is issued by Mr. Staffan De Mistura, UN Secretary-General's Personal Representative for southern Lebanon:

"Yesterday, at approximately 16:45 Hizballah launched a heavy military attack at four Israeli army positions in the Shebaa Farms vicinity using mortars and some missibles.  This action from the point of view of the United Nations was a clear and violent infringement of the Blue Line.

Yesterday's violent breach led to a response in the vicinity across the Blue Line by the Israeli Army.  This retaliation included artillery fire, as well as attacks by aircraft.  Fortunately, no casualties have been reported by either side.

Such violations contribute to a potential exacerbation of the already volatile situation in the region.

I would like to reiterate that the Security Council's position on the Blue Line has been firm and clear and that it considers such actions in the Shebaa Farms area as violations of the Line.

I met this morning with Foreign Minister Hamoud to express our deep concern about yesterday's deplorable breach and asked for the Lebanese authorities to do their utmost to ensure stability in the area.  My colleague, Mr. Terje Roed-Larsen is also urging the Israeli authorities to refrain from further retaliation.

The United Nations calls again on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to fully respect the Blue Line."

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