We have asked for the support of the United Nations on various levels: first of all, on the military level, because a strong army and strong armed forces could defend Lebanon against hostility of the enemy.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Meets with Lebanese President Sleiman

They include members of all three armed forces along with members of the Merchant Navy killed as a result of enemy action and air raid wardens in uniform.

BBC: Charity raises awareness of war graves in Scotland

And, having unexpectedly encountered the woman in her getup, I found myself wondering what, six and seven decades ago, they would have made of it: what the 16 million Americans who served in the armed forces during World War II, who were sent across the ocean to defeat a brutal enemy, would have thought about this scene.

CNN: What Americans owe to those who serve

Charities and non-governmental organisations are also reluctant for their efforts to be co-ordinated by the armed forces, fearing that it may put their aid workers at risk if they are identified with the enemy.

ECONOMIST: An UNconfirmed role | The