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Annan calls for immediate end to fighting

United Nations: United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Thursday called for the immediate ``cessation of hostilities'' in Lebanon, condemned Hizbollah militants' actions and Israel's ``excessive use of force'' while asserting that there were ``serious obstacles to reaching a ceasefire.''

Mr. Annan outlined a plan to end fighting in Lebanon, including the early release of two captured Israeli soldiers and the deployment of peacekeeping forces on the border.

The plan also involves calling an international conference tasked with ensuring full implementation of U.N. resolutions demanding the disbanding and disarming of all militias, including the Hizbollah in Lebanon.

``While the Hizbollah's actions are deplorable and Israel has a right to defend itself, the excessive use of force is to be condemned,'' he told the Security Council. — PTI

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