Israel’s Decision to Withdraw Troops From Northern Ghajar

Ban Welcomes Israel’s Decision to Withdraw Troops From Northern Ghajar

New York, Nov 18 2010 10:10AM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Israeli Government’s decision to withdraw its army from the northern part of Ghajar, a village that straddles the so-called Blue Line separating Israel and Lebanon.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson yesterday, Mr. Ban said the withdrawal of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from northern Ghajar would be “an important step” towards the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701.

Resolution 1701 brought to an end the conflict that took place between Israel and the Lebanese group Hizbollah four years ago. It also calls for respect for the Blue Line, the disarming of all militias operating in Lebanon and an end to arms smuggling in the area. “The United Nations intends to continue to work closely with all parties in the coming period in a process to resolve the permanent status of Ghajar,” the statement added.

Mr. Ban commended all sides for their continued commitment to resolution 1701 and stressed his determination and commitment to advance its full implementation.The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is tasked with monitoring the Blue Line and reporting any violations by either side. Nov 18 2010 10:10AM

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