The United Nations has expressed its "deep concern" at the continuing violence in Lebanon and has called on all parties to exercise restraint.

Lebanon's capital Beirut has been rocked by clashes between pro-and anti-government militias for the past three days. The country's parliamentary system is paralysed and the position of President has remained unfilled since November.

"Everything should be done at this time to keep the situation from deteriorating. The parties should address their political differences through peaceful means and dialogue," UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters.

She added that United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, is aware of the continuing mediation role of the Secretary-General of the Arab League and offered his full support.

In a statement to the press read out yesterday by Ambassador John Sawers of the United Kingdom, which holds the Security Council's rotating presidency for May, the 15-member body stressed the need to uphold the stability and sovereignty of Lebanon, urged all sides to exercise calm and restraint, and called for the immediate re-opening of all roads.

© NewsRoom 2008