Withdrawal line between Israel and Lebanon remains calm but tense – Annan

Israel and Lebanon have by and large “exercised restraint,” resulting in a relative calm along the line of withdrawal, but tension between the two parties remains high, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan says in a new report that also recommends a six-month extension of the UN force monitoring the situation in southern Lebanon.

“Almost six months have passed since the last violent exchange across the Blue Line, the longest period of relative calm since Israel withdrew from Lebanon more than three years ago after 22 years of occupation,” Mr. Annan says in his latest report to the Security Council on the activities of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) since last January.

“Nevertheless, tension between Israel and Lebanon remains high and the relative calm along the Blue Line is an uneasy one,” he notes. The most significant sources of tensions are the persistent Israeli violations of Lebanese airspace and the Hezbollah anti-aircraft fire directed towards Israeli villages.

Stressing the need for both parties to refrain from any action that could destabilize the situation on the ground, the Secretary-General warns: “Both the air incursions and the fire violations carry substantial potential for escalation.”

Mr. Annan, who recommends a six-month extension of the UNIFIL mandate, until 31 January 2004, said the mission would continue to contribute to the restoration of peace and security. It would also liase with both Lebanon and Israel to maintain calm.

However, Lebanon should continue to deploy armed forces in order to extend its control over the south as agreed upon by the Security Council, Mr. Annan adds.