BEIRUT, Lebanon: Lebanon’s Higher Shiite Council said Thursday that a national unity government "constitutes the right step to get out of the present political crisis."

It called on the country’s politicians to stop "tense" speeches, which "intensify" the political crisis, and deliver "moderate" statements.

"The formation of a national unity government does not aim to undermine the work of the state. Nor does it look to thwart the investigation into former Premier Rafik Hariri's assassination," the statement said.

The council also denounced foreign interference into Lebanon's internal affairs, notably when it comes to forming a government, and they called on all of the country's officials to reject foreign meddling in order to preserve Lebanon's independence, freedom and sovereignty.

It also urged the government to "eliminate" the effect of the recent war with Israel by restoring damaged roads and bridges.

"The council holds the UN Security Council responsible for the continued Israeli violations of Lebanese airspace and Israel's insistence on challenging international resolutions, namely 1701," the statement said.

The council's vice president, Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan, said the situation in Lebanon "is difficult," and urged the country's leaders to agree over controversial issues "without challenging each other."

Qabalan also urged UNIFIL to "protect Lebanese territory and put an end to Israel's impudent violations."