Israel returns Lebanese shepherd

BEIRUT, Lebanon, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Israeli forces on Monday handed over a Lebanese shepherd who strayed across the border to U.N. officials, but not before cease-fire concerns were raised.

A 17-year-old Lebanese shepherd was detained by Israeli forces when he wandered across the southern border during the weekend. Israeli forces handed him over to U.N. peacekeepers, who in turn handed him over to the Lebanese military.

Lebanese media reports said he showed signs of abuse upon his return. Michael Williams, the U.N. special coordinator for Lebanon, said Monday that he was "pleased" the man was released by Israeli forces and returned to Lebanon, Lebanon's Naharnet news service reports.

He added, however, that the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon was investigating the detention, stressing "much more needs to be done" to respect a 2006 cease-fire.

U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 brokered a cease-fire to a 34-day conflict between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in 2006. The measure stressed both sides need to respect their border agreements.

Border tensions between Lebanon and Israel escalated in 2009. Israel has come forward with statements saying that if Hezbollah, now a part of the Lebanese government, launches another attack, there would be no distinction between the Shiite resistance and Lebanon's infrastructure.

Hezbollah maintains it is prepared for any conflict.

Source: United Press International (UPI).
Link: http://www.upi.com/Top_News/Special/2010/02/01/Israel-returns-Lebanese-shepherd/UPI-27891265046841/.