BOURNEMOUTH MP Tobias Ellwood, who was recently named Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, has appealed for an end to the violence in the Lebanon.

The ongoing fighting in Arsal has led to the deaths, injuries and abductions of members of the security forces and caused civilian casualties.

Mr Ellwood said: “I condemn the attacks against the Lebanese Security Forces and ongoing violence in and around the town of Arsal.

“Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. I urge a swift end to the fighting that started over the weekend. I send my condolences to the Lebanese government and the families of the victims of this violence.

“The United Kingdom remains as determined as ever to back stability in Lebanon and is committed to assisting the Lebanese Armed Forces in enhancing security in the border regions.

“Such incidents, alongside the terrible daily suffering of millions of Syrians, show that the need for a political settlement in Syria has never been more pressing.”

He said the UK was committed to working with the UN to create the conditions for this.