“I am deeply concerned about the turn of events we are currently witnessing in the Middle East. The sparks that have already been ignited must not allowed to blaze up into a full conflagration.** We must at all costs prevent the situation from turning into a regional crisis,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

“Norway condemns Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel and the abduction of the two soldiers. We demand that they be released immediately,” he said.

“We also condemn the Israeli attacks on Lebanon, including the bombing of the airport in Beirut and the blockade of Lebanese territorial waters. This is totally unacceptable and a dangerous escalation of the situation. The attacks are also affecting civilians. Israel must, under any circumstances, respect the principles of military necessity and proportionality as set out in international law. With the tragedy Lebanon suffered through 15 years of civil war and 20 years of Israeli occupation fresh in mind, all parties must exercise restraint,” Mr Støre continued.

“The UN Security Council must now consider the situation,” he added.

The Norwegian authorities are maintaining regular contact with Norwegian nationals in Lebanon and have reinforced embassy staff in Beirut with personnel from Damascus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against non-essential travel to Lebanon. Norwegian nationals in Lebanon are encouraged to register with the Embassy in Beirut, where they may also obtain updated information.