Council of the Maronite Bishops on Wednesday voiced concerns over the fresh tensions that erupted between the Palestinian factions at the refugee camp of Ain el-Helweh in Saida.

In a statement following their monthly meeting under the chairmanship of Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, the Bishops urged the government as well as the military and security institutions to "take immediate and conclusive measures to put an end to the uncontrolled spread of arms inside the camp," stressing the obligation to "return to the legitimate security."

On the current political situation in the country, they thanked the French presidential envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian and the five nations for their efforts in helping resolve the presidential ordeal.

The Bishops urged the MPs to assume their national and constitutional duty and elect a new president of the republic.