area. They were prevented from doing so by Syria and its proxies, which turned Lebanon once again into a battle- ground, exploiting existing enmity between groups there and encouraging all-out war against its legitimate Government. 73. Israel welcomes the cease-fire declared in Lebanon a fortnight ago and expresses its hope that the cessation of hostilities will endure, leading to true reconciliation free of outside interventions and dictates. We are following the situation closely and are looking forward to the establish- ment of conditions which will ensure security and tranquil- lity along the Israel-Lebanese border. Under no circum- stances will Israel agree to-return to the state of affairs which prevailed until 16 months ago, when Lebanese territory was used .as a base for terrorist operations against our citizens, Israel sincerely hopes for and wishes to see an independ.ent Lebanon in which a strong and stable regime exercises control throughout the country. 74. The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Arabic): The Council has heard the statement by the representative of Israel. I should like to point out the ill will and hypocrisy evident in that statement, especially as regards his country’s alleged love of peace. I think it my duty as representative of Jordan to remind the Council that Israel, which arrogantly speaks of peace, has occupied Jerusalem, the West Bank, Gaza and the Golan Heights for more than 16 years, in addition to its occupation of southern Lebanon, its refusal to be inclined towards peace ever since it was established, its dependence on military expansion and its. attempt to impose its domination and hegemony over the region at the expense of its indigenous peoples. 75. I now request the representative of Israel to resume his place at the side of the Council chamber. 76. I should like to inform the members of the Council 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a statement by the representative of Israel at the United Nations, discussing the conflict in Lebanon and the Middle East. The language used is political and diplomatic, with no mention of economic, environmental, or scientific issues. The focus is on the conflict and the relationships between countries in the region.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, International relations