SECRETARY-GENERAL CONDEMNS HEZBOLLAH’S SHELLING OF ISRAEL

The following was issued by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan on 10 August:

The Secretary-General of the United Nations strongly condemns the shelling of anti-aircraft missiles by Hezbollah into Israel that cost the life of a young Israeli of 16 and wounded four other civilians in the town of Shlomi.� This represents a serious violation of the blue line and of Security Council's resolutions.� He extends his sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims.

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the current escalation in the area and calls upon all parties involved to fully respect the blue line.� He urges all governments that have influence on Hezbollah to deter it from any further actions which could increase the tension in the area.� Meanwhile, he calls upon the Government of Israel to exercise utmost restraint.

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