[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 139 (Wednesday, August 5, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4883-S4884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                 BEIRUT

  Mr. McCONNELL. Madam President, first, I extend the Senate's 
condolences to the people of Lebanon following yesterday's horrific 
explosion in Beirut. Reports indicate that at least 100 have died and 
that more than 4,000 others were injured.
  The Lebanese people have seen more than their share of tragedy--civil 
war, Syrian occupation, terrorism and assassination, sectarian 
violence, economic and political corruption, the burden of caring for 
more than a million refugees fleeing Syria.
  Now, unfortunately, once again, in the wake of great tragedy, the 
Lebanese Armed Forces will have to demonstrate they serve the state of 
Lebanon and its people, not a political party or sect. Since the end of 
Syrian occupation, the LAF has demonstrated it can be a unifying and 
national force, largely free from sectarianism that corrodes other 
Lebanese institutions. Now it must do so again
  The people of Beirut are beginning the hard work of rebuilding their 
city. Their nation continues its hard work to restore its democracy and 
sovereignty. On these fronts, the Senate

[[Page S4884]]

and the American people stand with them in their journey.

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