Arab League warns against escalating tensions as Israeli jets launch raids on southern Lebanon

Cairo, August 7 (RHC)-- The Arab League has warned that escalating hostilities between Lebanon and the Tel Aviv regime could spiral out of control as Israeli jets struck what its military claimed were rocket launch sites in Lebanon.

The 22-member regional organization, in a statement, said Lebanon has been passing through a difficult time and could not endure more tensions.   The pan-Arab body noted that the practices of the new Israeli administration headed by prime minister Naftali Bennett are meant to display its force.

The Arab League called on all Lebanese parties and factions to exercise self-restraint in order to prevent chaos.  It also urged the international community to help Lebanon tackle its political stalemate and unprecedented economic problems.

Hamas has denounced the ‘barbaric’ bombing of southern Lebanon by Israel as ‘blatant aggression.’
Moreover, the head of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on Thursday urged Lebanon and the Israeli regime to respect the UNIFIL's coordination role following tensions.  “In this period of regional volatility, more than ever, UNIFIL's liaison and coordination role must be respected by all sides,” Stefano Del Col said.

The UNIFIL head also called on both parties “to act with urgency” to de-escalate tensions and prevent breaches of the cessation of hostilities.  “Earlier today [Thursday], rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israeli territory,” the Israeli air force alleged in a tweet.

“In response … fighter jets struck the launch sites and infrastructure … in Lebanon from which the rockets were launched.   “An additional target in the area from which rockets have been launched in the past was struck as well,” the tweet added.