MORE ROCKETS FIRED INTO ISRAEL FROM LEBANON DESPITE UN CALLS FOR RESTRAINT

New York, Jan 14 2009 2:10PM
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that several rockets were fired at Israel from Lebanese territory today, with Israeli forces returning fire, despite calls for restraint from Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and others after a similar incident last week.

There were no immediate claims of responsibility for the rockets fired from Lebanon, according to UNIFIL.

There were also no reports of damage or injuries from the firing or from the two rounds of artillery Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) fired in return, the Force said.

UNIFIL, in cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces, is currently investigating on the ground close to the northern boundary of its Area of Operations in the Eastern Sector, to locate the launching site of the rocket fire.

The incident comes as the IDF continues the military operation it launched in Gaza on 27 December, with the stated aim of ending rocket and other attacks by militants in the Strip.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned last week's incident and reminded the parties of their obligation to fully adhere to Security Council resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hizbollah, and to respect the cessation of hostilities agreement.

UNIFIL Force Commander Major-General Claudio Graziano today once again urged maximum restraint, and is working with both parties to maintain the cessation of hostilities.

A joint UNIFIL-Lebanese patrol, during a search operation in the general area of El Hebbariye after today's rocket fire, discovered three live rockets prepared for launch and deactivated them on the spot. The two groups are continuing intensive patrolling and search throughout the area.
Jan 14 2009 2:10PM

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