2005 press releases

U.S. Ambassador Condemns Murder of Lebanese Political Figure George Hawi

June 21, 2005

The Embassy of the United States of America condemns in the strongest terms the murder of Lebanese political figure George Hawi, killed by a bomb on June 21 in Beirut. In our view, this attack, like that which killed an-Nahar journalist Samir Kassir on June 2, was not random. This attack on an outspoken critic of Syria’s presence in Lebanon is once again an effort to silence Lebanese voices demanding freedom and sovereignty. Mr. Hawi was an opponent of the Syrian presence in Lebanon. He, like thousands upon thousands of Lebanese, joined his voice to those demanding an end to Syrian influence in Lebanese politics. Mr. Hawi was murdered by forces that placed no value on human life. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Hawi's wife and his family. We hope that the Lebanese authorities will be able to bring the perpetrators to justice. The United States stands ready to respond rapidly to any requests for assistance.