Israel to lift Lebanon blockade

Israel will lift its sea and air blockade of Lebanon tomorrow evening, the Israeli government announced today.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said international forces would replace the Israelis at command positions over Lebanese seaports and airports.

Israel has been maintaining the blockade since the beginning of its offensive in Lebanon, which ended with a cease-fire late last month.

The Israeli said the blockade was necessary to prevent new arms shipments to Hezbollah guerrillas.