In connection with the exchange of fire between Israeli and Lebanese forces on the Israeli-Lebanese border that reportedly also caused deaths and injuries, Federal Foreign Minister Westerwelle today (3 August) issued the following statement:

”I am concerned by these violent clashes and deeply regret that people have evidently been killed and injured.

It is absolutely vital to avoid any escalation of the situation. I call on both sides to exercise maximum restraint and cooperate with the UNIFIL peacekeepers.

Everything possible must be done to prevent the quest for peace and a modus vivendi in the region being undermined.“

The German Government reacted to news of the incident by immediately contacting the Israeli and Lebanese Governments and urging restraint.