The U.S. State Department expressed, today Monday, its concern about the transfer of the conflict from Gaza to southern Lebanon, according to Al Arabiya.

In the same context, Lebanese caretaker National Defense Minister Maurice Slim warned of the danger of pushing Palestinians to leave their land, considering that this exacerbates the intensity of the conflict and works to expand its scope.

Slim confirmed - during his meeting today with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto - that the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation against the safe population and its targeting of vital and residential facilities in Gaza constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.

The minister emphasized Lebanon's commitment to the safety of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and its continuation of carrying out its assigned tasks, pointing out that the army was and will remain keen on the highest levels of cooperation with UNIFIL.

He thanked Italy for its support to Lebanon and for aiding the Lebanese army.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati also confirmed that diplomatic communications are ongoing to urge an end to the Israeli provocations occurring in southern Lebanon, explaining that he is working with local parties to maintain self-restraint and avoid dragging Lebanon into any specific dangers.

Mikati added in statements today that caution in Lebanon will remain as long as gunfire continues in Gaza and Israeli provocations persist against the southern Lebanese towns.

He continued that there is a kind of awareness among all parties that Lebanon must be spared from war, pointing out that there are no fundamental capabilities in Lebanon to cope with and confront all situations.