- I welcome and give my full support to Security Council resolution 1701 on a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon. The full support of a united international community is key to completing the challenging tasks which this resolution sets out. Responsibility now lies with the parties. Their willingness to implement the resolution will be decisive, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.

The Security Council resolution requires Hezbollah to cease its attacks against Israel immediately, and Israel to stop its military operations in Lebanon.

- I am pleased that Israel and Lebanon have both stated that they will support the resolution. I want to urge all of the parties not to do anything now that could undermine the Security Council resolution. Hezbollah, which carries significant responsibility for the present situation, must follow up the resolution and lay down its weapons. The organisation must be disarmed as soon as possible in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions. At the same time, there should be a rapid Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, said Mr Støre.

- I also welcome the Security Council’s decision to significantly strengthen the UNIFIL force in southern Lebanon and the decision to deploy Lebanese forces in this area. This underlines Lebanon’s territorial sovereignty, which is important for achieving lasting peace. Norway will assess how it can best assist in this important task.