United States Condemns Violence in Lebanon

The United States is deeply concerned about developments today in Lebanon. Lebanese factions allied with Syria are blocking roads, preventing people from reaching their jobs and schools, and obstructing the work of the security services. These factions are trying to use violence, threats, and intimidation to impose their political will on Lebanon. They also seek to distract attention from the Paris III conference to be held later this week, where international donors will demonstrate their strong support for the people and government of Lebanon. Especially given the dangers of sectarian clashes, the United States calls on all parties to use peaceful and constitutional means to debate the political issues before them, and to exercise restraint. Lebanon is a democracy with a strong parliamentary system and a tradition of national dialogue. The United States hopes that Lebanon's leaders will return immediately to the Parliament, or resume a national dialogue, in order to resolve political differences peacefully.

2007/044