Monday, August 14 2006 15:20 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Jerusalem: Israel has framed new guidelines for its forces that will remain in Lebanon once the ceasefire takes place even as its premier ordered the army to halt its offensive against Hezboallah fighters at least six hours ahead of today's (Aug 14, 2006) 1030 IST deadline.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), at a late last meeting, drafted new guidelines for the Israeli forces that will hold positions in Lebanon once the ceasefire comes into effect.

The new guidlines allow a Israeli soldier to open fire at any Hezbollah fighter who endangers him, the 'Ha'aertz' newspaper said in its website today.

"If necessary meaning if troops are endangered, if wounded men has to be evacuated or if a pinned down force need to be rescued -commanders will also be able to call helicopter fire, fighter jets and artillery," the paper said quoting army sources.

UN Secretary General Kofi Annan announced on Saturday that the Prime Ministers of Israel and Lebanon have agreed for a ceasefire that will come into force on August 14 at 1030 IST.

Meanwhile, Prime Minster Ehud Olmert ordered the army to halt its offensive against Hezboallah fighters in Lebanon at least six hours ahead of today's 1030 IST ceasefire deadline.

"Olmert discussed the situation with Defence Minister Amir Peretz and chiefs of defence establishments last night and ordered the army to begin abiding by the ceasefire as of 2 am local time (0430 IST)," the paper said.