Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Lebanon

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Matthew Rycroft (United Kingdom):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack on 12 November in Beirut, killing at least 43 and injuring more than 200 people.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and Government of Lebanon.  The members of the Security Council wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and international humanitarian law, and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Lebanese authorities in this regard.  The members of the Security Council reminded States they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their determination to combat terrorism in all forms and manifestations, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international law.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their strong support for the stability, territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon.