UN peacekeeping mission pushes diplomacy to quell Israel-Lebanon tensions

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) backed UN resolution 1701 as the proper framework needed to ensure a political and diplomatic resolution to the conflict between Lebanon's Hezbollah group and Israel. The Israeli-Lebanon border has witnessed a sharp rise in hostilities, which further brings into focus the important role of the UN peacekeeping mission, said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel, amid a visit to UN force's base alongside a contingent of Lebanese lawmakers. Reiterating Beirut's refusal for an all-out war, lawmaker Fadi Allama said Lebanon is committed to implement relevant UN laws and resolutions, while Lebanon has asked the UN to renew UNIFIL's mandate, which is set to expire on August 31. Source: Kuwait News Agency