Lebanon's prime minister has had no contact with Hezbollah for weeks

Lebanon's caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, says he has had no contact with Hezbollah representatives for weeks, even though the militia puts up two Cabinet ministers and has 13 representatives in the Lebanese parliament.

"There has been no communication with Hezbollah since the middle of last month," Mikati told news broadcaster Al Arabiya. He did not reveal how he had communicated with the Iran-backed Shiite organization in the past.

Mikati's statement indicates that Hezbollah leaders are moving with care and restricting contact with others since Israel began expanding military operations in Lebanon several weeks ago.

Hezbollah leaders are thought to be changing their location frequently following the killing of leader Hassan Nasrallah and other senior commanders.

Hezbollah plays a major role in Lebanese public life, apart from its military activities. It provides social services, including schools and hospitals. It has entered into coalitions with other parties.