By IRNA,
London : The British government has expressed its “grave concern” about the violent clashes in Lebanon over the past two days.
“All sides now need to work to reduce tension and restore confidence in Lebanon’s future. This means first and foremost stopping the violence,” Foreign Secretary David Miliband said.
“All of Lebanon’s leaders must commit themselves to peaceful and democratic dialogue in the interests of all communities in Lebanon,” Miliband said.
His call came as the Foreign Office advised against all travel to Lebanon following the flare up of violence, warning that Britons may find it difficult to get in and come out of the country.
The foreign secretary said that he had spoken to Lebanese Prime Minister Siniora and expressed Britain’s desire to see a stable and secure future for his country.
“We support strongly the efforts of the international community and the Arab League to resolve the situation,” he said.
Armed groups, he said, must withdraw from the streets and the Lebanese Army should be allowed to restore legitimate order.
In a written statement, Miliband concluded by repeating his call for a ne Lebanese President to be elected “quickly and constitutionally.”