UN council considers French-US Mideast resolution

UNITED NATIONS, Aug 6 (Reuters) UN Security Council envoys today attempt to put finishing touches on a draft resolution from France and the United States calling for a halt to fighting between Israel and Hizbollah guerrillas and setting terms for a settlement to the conflict.

The text calls for a ''full cessation of hostilities,'' asks UN peacekeepers to monitor it and stipulates principles necessary for a permanent political settlement.

A vote has not been set yet but is expected tomorrow or Tuesday.

The resolution is the result of negotiations by the United States, an ally of Israel, and France, tipped as the possible leader of an anticipated international force for south Lebanon.

The resolution is the first of two to deal with the violence that has killed more than 700 Lebanese and 78 Israelis. The second measure, expected in about two weeks, would cover plans for a permanent peace agreement and authorise the international force.

Despite negative reactions from Lebanon and Hizbollah, most council members hope the resolution will at least subdue the fighting and allow access for relief workers.

''I think everybody agrees that the resolution be adopted as soon as possible -- by tomorrow, if possible,'' Japan's UN ambassador, Kenzo Oshima, told reporters.

''It is very difficult to expect either the Lebanese government or the Israeli government to fully like it,'' Oshima said. ''Any resolution that can enjoy the full support of the council will be something that will aim at the middle ground and not to please one party to the exclusion of the other.'' MORE REUTERS DKA PM1311