BEIRUT, Sept 29 — Lebanon’s army today warned the Lebanese against actions that would disturb public order in the crisis-hit country after Israel killed Hassan Nasrallah, leader of the powerful Iran-backed group Hezbollah.

The army in a statement said it “calls on citizens to preserve national unity and not to be drawn into actions that may affect civil peace at this dangerous and delicate stage”, following the massive Friday strike that killed Nasrallah and as Israeli attacks continue.

The Israeli enemy is working to implement its destructive plans and sow division among Lebanese,” the army statement added.

Tiny Lebanon has long been divided along sectarian lines and witnessed a devastating 1975-1990 civil war.

A Lebanese army official told AFP troops had been deployed since Saturday in Beirut, where thousands have sought refuge from intense Israeli raids on Lebanon’s south and east and Hezbollah’s south Beirut bastion.

Prime Minister Najib Mikati urged Lebanese “to come together” to preserve civil order.

“Our national responsibility at this historic and exceptional moment requires setting aside political differences,” he said on Saturday, after cutting short a New York trip.

‘Radio silent’

United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert also called for unity in a statement on X on Sunday.

“At this critical moment for Lebanon when uncertainty is rife, now is the time for the country to focus on the common interest that unites its people,” she said.

Even the parties traditionally opposed to the powerful Iran-backed group have refrained from making fiery statements following Nasrallah’s killing.