EU Presidency: Israel blockade of Lebanon against international law

Finland, which holds the current Presidency of the European Union, yesterday said that it "is greatly concerned about the disproportionate use of force by Israel in Lebanon."

The EU Presidency in a statement deplored the loss of civilian lives and the destruction of civilian infrastructure.

"The imposition of an air and sea blockade on Lebanon cannot be justified. Actions, which are contrary to international humanitarian law, can only aggravate the vicious circle of violence and retribution, and cannot serve anyone's legitimate security interests," noted the statement.

It urged Hizbullah to release the captured Israeli soldiers "immediately and unconditionally, and to cease all attacks on Israel."

The EU Presidency also called on the government of Lebanon to do its utmost to prevent such attacks and urged all countries in the region to work for the restoration of calm in order to avoid the further escalation of the situation into war.

Switzerland as recently as days ago said Israel's attacks on civilians are a violation of international humanitarian law, which means a violation of the Geneva Convention. The UN civil rights committee has voted to start an investigation into Israel's actions.