FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Terrorist Attack on the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
August 2, 2014
The United States strongly condemns the al Nusra Front’s attack today on the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in Arsal, where reportedly at least seven soldiers were killed and some Internal Security Forces (ISF) members were briefly held hostage. We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims’ families and wish a full recovery to those who were wounded.
As the violence spills over to Syria’s neighbors, including from violent extremists, we urge all parties in Lebanon to respect the Lebanese government’s policy of dissociation from regional conflicts, as stated in the Baabda Declaration.
The United States is committed to Lebanon’s security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We will continue our strong support for Lebanon’s state institutions, including the LAF and the ISF, as they work to preserve and protect a stable, sovereign, and secure Lebanon.
As the violence spills over to Syria’s neighbors, including from violent extremists, we urge all parties in Lebanon to respect the Lebanese government’s policy of dissociation from regional conflicts, as stated in the Baabda Declaration.
The United States is committed to Lebanon’s security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We will continue our strong support for Lebanon’s state institutions, including the LAF and the ISF, as they work to preserve and protect a stable, sovereign, and secure Lebanon.
