In a joint statement, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka and Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force Aroldo Lazaro stressed the need to end violence and suffering.

The two sides indicated that the relentless cycle of attacks and counter-attacks, violating the cessation of hostilities, is the most severe violation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1701 since its adoption in 2006.

They noted that the gradual expansion of the scope and scale of fighting well beyond the Blue Line significantly increases the risk of miscalculation and further deterioration of an alarming situation.

The two UN officials called on all parties to recommit to the cessation of hostilities under Resolution 1701 and pursue ways to avoid a further escalation “while there is still a space for diplomacy.”

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