Security Council Concerned By Assassinations

Lebanon: Security Council Concerned By 'Destabilizing Impact' Of Political Assassinations

New York, Jun 7 2005

The United Nations Security Council today expressed its concern about the "destabilizing impact of political assassinations and other terrorist attacks in Lebanon" and it warned that such acts should not be permitted to jeopardize the holding of transparent and democratic parliamentary elections.

"The Security Council calls upon all parties to show restraint and a sense of responsibility with a view to the successful completion of the electoral process and government formation in the country," the Council declared in a statement read out by the 15-nation body's President for the month of June, Ambassador Jean-Marc de la Sablière of France, after a formal meeting.

Mr. de la Sablière also said that the Council condemned in the strongest terms the bombing in Beirut, Lebanon, on 2 June that killed the outspoken Lebanese journalist Samir Qassir, "who was a symbol of political independence and freedom."

He further stated that the Council reaffirmed its Resolution 1559 and it "reiterates its call for the strict respect of the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and political independence of Lebanon."

Resolution 1559 calls for the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon, the disarmament of militia, the extension of Government control over all Lebanese territory and the holding of free elections.

The Council also welcomed "the determination and commitment of the Government of Lebanon to bring to justice the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of this assassination, and determines that this assassination, like others before it, constitutes a pernicious effort to undermine security, stability, sovereignty, political independence and efforts aimed at preserving civil accord in the country.

ENDS

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