Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Washington, DC
February 14, 2007
Today we observe the second anniversary of the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri who, along with 21 others, was brutally murdered on February 14, 2005, for standing up for Lebanon's freedom and democracy. Such acts of terrorism can only be seen as an attempt to silence and intimidate those who are determined to realize the vision of a sovereign and peaceful Lebanon.
The United States remains committed to the prompt establishment of a Special Tribunal to bring to justice those responsible for the assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri and other patriots who gave their lives for a free and democratic Lebanon. The Lebanese people deserve to know the truth about all these crimes, and to live in an independent and secure country in which the people are free to make decisions without fear of violence and intimidation.
We extend our sympathy to the victims and their families of yesterday's bus bombings outside Beirut. We encourage all parties to honor the memories of former Prime Minister Hariri and all others who have been targeted by such acts of terrorism in Lebanon, by resuming dialogue and pursuing peaceful means to resolve their differences. The United States is steadfast in its support of the people of Lebanon and their democratically elected government.
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