Iran's foreign minister to meet Lebanese officials

Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki is expected in Beirut later today in the first visit by an Iranian official to war-hit Lebanon since fighting broke out between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah guerrillas.

Mottaki was to arrive from neighbouring Syria, Lebanese foreign ministry officials said.

He will have talks with Lebanese President Emile Lahoud, Prime Minister Fuad Saniora and Foreign Minister Fawzi Salloukh.

Iran and Syria are the principal sponsors of Hezbollah, and the two countries have applauded Hezbollah’s July 12 capture of two Israeli soldiers, which triggered the Israeli offensive in Lebanon that has killed hundreds of Lebanese, most civilians.

Mottaki’s visit comes a day after Israeli warplanes bombed a house in the southern village of Qana, killing at least 56 civilians, most of them women and children, provoking worldwide condemnation.

French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy was also in Lebanon today to push for an immediate ceasefire.