The United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Derek Plumbly, today expressed concern at incidents of violence in Tripoli, north Lebanon and in areas of eastern Lebanon during the past few days, which have led to tragic loss of life, both among civilians and the Lebanese Armed Forces.
He also condemned yesterday’s suicide car bombing in the area of Nabi Othman in east Lebanon that killed and wounded a number of people. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims of all these incidents.
The Special Coordinator said the recurrence of such indiscriminate acts of violence should serve as further encouragement for all Lebanese to rally around state institutions, particularly the army and the security forces, as they work to protect Lebanon from the impact of the crisis in neighbouring Syria. He welcomed again the recent formation of the new Lebanese government, as well as the agreement now reached in cabinet on a ministerial statement, as important steps towards reinforcing Lebanon’s institutions in the face of the numerous challenges confronting the country including at the security level. The Special Coordinator reiterated the UN’s readiness to stand by the Lebanese authorities and expressed the hope that those responsible for the recent acts of violence will be brought to justice as soon as possible.