Lebanon marks the 20th anniversary of Rafik Hariri’s assassination amid significant political changes. The ousting of Bashar Assad in Syria, Hezbollah’s leadership transition after Nasrallah’s death, and sentiments of unity among supporters highlight a pivotal moment in Lebanese history. The newly formed government faces economic crises as Arab nations reconsider their relations with Lebanon.
Lebanon commemorated the 20th anniversary of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri’s assassination with thousands of supporters gathering in downtown Beirut. The event highlighted significant political changes in the region, notably the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime in Syria, which has been implicated in orchestrating Hariri’s murder.
Following the assassination of Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike, Hezbollah is at a pivotal point. Hariri’s son, Saad Hariri, addressed the crowds, stating this signifies the start of justice for his father’s death. Saad noted that Hariri’s vision for Lebanon is still present despite attempts to undermine it.
During the memorial, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and President Joseph Aoun paid their respects, emphasizing Hariri’s legacy in national unity and prosperity. Hariri died on February 14, 2005, due to a massive bomb blast that also killed 21 others and injured more than 200.
A U.N. tribunal connected to Hariri’s assassination convicted a Hezbollah member but acquitted three others, and none have faced arrest. This incident sparked the Cedar Revolution, leading to protests against Syrian military presence in Lebanon and exacerbating sectarian tensions.
Supporters expressed hopes for unity following Assad’s removal; buses brought thousands to honor Hariri’s memory. Activist Mohammad Kanaan remarked on a new era in Lebanese governance after the Syrian and Iranian influences faded. Saad echoed these sentiments, attributing the public’s strength in expelling Assad to the Lebanese people’s courage.
With a looming deadline for Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri emphasized opposition to any proposal for Israeli forces remaining in strategic points post-withdrawal. Both Aoun and Saad called for compliance with the established timeline.
Salam’s newly formed government, a mix of technocrats and political figures, faces Lebanon’s economic crisis. Though Hezbollah did not endorse Salam, they engaged during the formation process. Support for Salam’s government has emerged from the U.S. amid the need for stability and reforms.
New Arab support is also forthcoming, with countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE reconsidering their relations with Lebanon, hoping to reinvigorate connections that declined due to Hezbollah’s growing influence. This shift indicates a potential reintegration of Lebanon into broader Arab agendas, reminiscent of Hariri’s era.
The 20th anniversary of Rafik Hariri’s assassination comes at a crucial time for Lebanon, with significant political shifts and the aftermath of regional conflicts. The collective memory of Hariri’s legacy continues to inspire calls for justice and national unity. As Lebanon navigates its complex political landscape, the international community is watching closely for signs of stability and reform. The enduring hope is for a unified Lebanon free of foreign domination.
Original Source: apnews.com
