[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 4 (Monday, February 4, 2008)]
[Page 114]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Situation in Lebanon

January 26, 2008

    I strongly condemn the terrorist bombing in Beirut that killed 
Lebanese Internal Security Forces Captain Wissam Eid and many other 
Lebanese. I extend condolences to the families of the innocent Lebanese 
killed in this brutal attack and hope for a rapid recovery for all those 
wounded.
    This bombing, the latest in a series of terrorist attacks targeting 
those who are working to secure Lebanon's independence and sovereignty, 
is a part of the continuing assault on Lebanon's institutions. We will 
not falter in our support for the democratically elected Lebanese 
Government. We renew our call for the immediate selection of a new 
President in accordance with Lebanon's Constitution. We demand that 
Syria, Iran, and their allies end their interference in and obstruction 
of Lebanon's political process.
    The Lebanese people should be able to enjoy security and liberty 
without the threat of terrorism, violence, and foreign intimidation. I 
appreciate the U.N.'s efforts to rapidly stand up the Special Tribunal 
for Lebanon, which will hold accountable those who are responsible for 
this systematic campaign of murder and intimidation. I urge Lebanon's 
friends and allies to commit immediately the remaining funds required 
for the tribunal to commence its work.