(15 May 2011, statement from UNIFIL Force Commander Major-General Alberto Asarta Cuevas)

"In view of the serious turn of events near Maroun al Ras today that has led to tragic loss of lives, I am personally in contact with the Command of the parties.

I have called for maximum restraint on all sides in order to prevent any further casualties. Immediate concrete security steps on the ground are necessary.

I trust that our efforts would help restore calm and prevent any further incidents along the Blue Line.

UNIFIL is maintaining its troop presence on the ground in support of the LAF in accordance with our mandate under UN Security Council resolution 1701. We stand ready to provide any assistance requested by LAF within the framework of our cooperation and coordination with the LAF."