(Communicated by the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson)
April 2, 2002
Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres called UN Envoy to the Middle
East Terje Larsen to an urgent meeting, in light of the Hizbullah's
attempt to heighten tensions on the northern border - an action that
is liable to lead to a regional escalation.
At the meeting, which was also attended by IDF Chief of Planning
General Giora Eiland, Mr. Peres presented a number of disturbing
incidents that had occurred along Israel's northern border in recent
days. These events indicate that the Hizbullah is interested in
persisting its provocations, and escalating the situation in the
region.
Peres stressed that Israel views these attempts very seriously, and
called upon the UN to emphasize to Damascus the magnitude of the
dangers inherent in the situation.
Mr. Larsen stated that he concurs with Israel's concerns, adding the
he will duly warn the parties involved and act to reduce regional
tensions.
Israel's Ambassador to the UN was instructed to meet with the UN
Secretary General within the day, in order to relay to him an urgent
dispatch from Foreign Minister Peres regarding the issue.
Peres stated: "We have no intention of bringing about an escalation
in the North, yet even less of an intention of abandoning the North
to the whims of the terrorists in Lebanon. Syria and Lebanon should
regard the developing situation with the appropriate and requisite
seriousness and responsibility."