Israel lifts part of Lebanon blockade
Ehud Olmert's decision has attracted strong criticism from some Israelis
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Thursday, 07, Sep 2006 08:00
Israel has begun to allow flights back into Lebanon as its blockade of the country, imposed eight weeks ago to restrict the operations of Hizbullah militants, is eased.
The move comes after fighting ended on August 14th with the passing of a United Nations resolution and ceasefire.
But while a Lebanese airliner landed at Beirut international airport shortly after the embargo was stepped down this afternoon, not all air traffic can return yet.
Only two airlines are permitted to use the airport and only then on the condition that they stop over in Jordan.
In addition, a spokesperson for Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert confirmed that the naval restrictions would continue until an international force was in place to monitor vessels coming in and out of the region.
The Lebanese government had expected both parts of the blockade to be lifted simultaneously, but an Israeli official explained that "the UN was not ready to receive" responsibility for the task.
"When they are ready, we will transfer," the official said.
Relatives of the Israeli soldiers whose capture sparked the conflict have been critical of Mr Olmert's decision, perceiving him to have failed in the main objective of the military operations.
Italian and French naval vessels are expected to oversee a UN fleet off the Lebanese coast before being gradually replaced by a German-led contingent.