September 13, 1982
For most of the period since the Beirut agreement was reached last month, all parties have demonstrated considerable restraint in their military activities. However, in the past week there have been a growing number of incidents which can only harm the chances for advancing the peace process.
The U.S. urges all concerned to avoid provocations, to exercise restraint, and thereby contribute to the hopes of the citizens in the region for progress toward peace.
During the coming days, Ambassador Morris Draper will be meeting with the parties to discuss ways to reduce the tension still remaining in Lebanon and to help strengthen the authority of the central Lebanese Government.
Note: Deputy Press Secretary Larry M. Speakes read the statement during his morning briefing for reporters, which began in his office at 9:17 a.m.