Israel lifts naval blockade

Occupied Jerusalem: Israel has lifted its naval blockade of Lebanon, imposed eight-weeks ago when it went to war with Hezbollah.

Miri Eisin, a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, "The blockade has ended," adding, "Israeli ships have been given the orders to turn over the implementation of the arms embargo to the international force. The international community will continue to enforce the arms embargo by sea to Lebanon.''

The head of the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, Major General Alain Pellegrini approved the decision. He said, "The blockade has seriously undermined the Lebanese economy and it is high time for it to end so as to allow the people to get back to their business."

The move comes a day after Israel ended its restrictions on air travel into Lebanon.