U.N., U.S. Condemn Double Suicide Bombing, Reject Terrorism
The United Nations and U.S. have “strongly condemned” the double suicide bombing that targeted an Iranian cultural center in Beirut's southern suburbs.
The 15-member Security Council “strongly condemned” Wednesday's attack in the Bir Hassan neighborhood and “reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.”
“Any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the Council said in a statement issued to the press.
U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon also condemned the attack.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ban extended his condolences to the families of the victims and the Lebanese government and people.
“The Secretary-General notes the active efforts of the Lebanese army and security forces in working to detain terrorist suspects and prevent attacks, and calls for the perpetrators of this crime to be brought to justice,” his spokesperson added.
Washington condemned “in the strongest possible terms” the bombings.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families. We stand firmly with the new government, with the people of Lebanon, the Lebanese Armed Forces, and the internal security forces as they combat terrorism,” said deputy State Department spokesperson Marie Harf.
“This wave of terrorism threatens the principles of stability, freedom, and safety that the people of Lebanon have worked so hard to uphold,” Harf said.
“We urge all parties to refrain from retaliatory acts that contribute to the cycle of violence,” the spokesperson told journalists, adding “We support the government of Lebanon in its efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The explosions occurred as Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia and Angus King of Maine were in Beirut. The senators are on a weeklong trip that includes Israel and the West Bank and Egypt.
"We condemn the violence and we have deep condolences for the victims and families and feel for the Lebanese people," Kaine, a Democrat, said.
The senators spoke in a telephone interview with The Associated Press in Beirut after meeting with President Michel Suleiman and Prime Minister Tammam Salam.
Kaine, who is chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee on near eastern and central and south Asian affairs, said the work of this new government in combating terrorism is critical.
"We hope the formation of the government will build some trust that will enable the country to maneuver those steps as well," he said.
Source: Naharnet, Associated Press
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