UNIFIL calls for immediate ceasefire in south Lebanon, fears escalatory actions

UNIFIL issued on Friday the following statement regarding the most recent security developments between Lebanon and Israel: 

"Late this morning, UNIFIL detected rocket launches from the outside UNIFIL’s area of operations in south Lebanon towards the Israeli-occupied Golan.

This was followed almost immediately by an artillery response from Israel in the Shebaa Farms area.

UNIFIL’s Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Stefano Del Col is in direct contact with the parties.

He calls on everyone to immediately cease fire.

This is a very dangerous situation, with escalatory actions seen on both sides over the past two days.

UNIFIL is actively engaging with the parties through all formal and informal liaison and coordination mechanisms to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

We are coordinating with the Lebanese Armed Forces to strengthen security measures throughout the area of operations.

UNIFIL calls on the parties to cease fire and maintain calm so we can begin an investigation."