Israel has begun to lift gradually its blockade of Lebanon, eight weeks after imposing it following the capture of two soldiers by Hezbollah militants.

Israel said the air blockade was lifted, but the naval embargo would remain until a sufficient UN naval force was in place.

Relatives of the captured soldiers had said the blockade should remain until the two soldiers were freed, BBC reported.

The embargo held back recovery after Israel's seven-week bombardment.

Fighting ended on 14 August after the UN passed Resolution 1701 which called for a ceasefire and security arrangements for Israel's northern border.

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