Israel expects ceasefire by Monday- report

JERUSALEM, Aug 12 (Reuters) Israel expects a ceasefire in fighting with Hizbollah, called for in a United Nations Security Council resolution, to take effect by Monday, the Ynet news web site reported today.

The report, quoting sources in Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's office, said that once a ceasefire was in force, the Israeli army would stop its advance in southern Lebanon.

Israeli officials were not immediately available for comment.

Israel's Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres earlier welcomed the UN resolution passed unanimously yesterday. The resolution calls for an end to hostilities that erupted on July 12, after Hizbollah captured two Israeli soldiers in a raid.

Israel's cabinet is expected to express support for the resolution at its weekly session tomorrow.

In the meantime, Israeli forces have stepped up operations in Lebanon, driving north towards the Litani river, 20 km inside the country.

REUTERS AB PM1608