Naharnet

Hariri: We Hold Govt. Responsible for Syrian Violations against Lebanese

Former premier Saad Hariri condemned Wednesday what he called the “assassination” of three Lebanese young men at the hands of Syrian security forces in the northern Lebanese border area of Wadi Khaled.

In a statement issued by his press office, Hariri held Prime Minister Najib Miqati’s government responsible for “the frequent Syrian violations against Lebanese citizens and Lebanese sovereignty.”

“Recently, one of the residents of the defiant (Bekaa border) town of Arsal was assassinated at the hands of the Syrian forces, after several attacks and violations of the Lebanese-Syrian border, and the government stood idly by,” Hariri charged.

“Today, more than ever, the relevant Lebanese authorities must take the measures necessary to protect the Lebanese citizens and prevent the occurrence of such condemned violations,” the ex-PM added.

Earlier on Wednesday, Hariri stressed that he was not after power but that he wanted to continue in his father's legacy and do something to benefit the country.

“My father’s legacy was to serve Lebanon, the Lebanese, and all the Arab affairs,” Hariri said on Twitter, in response to a question from a follower.

He said that he aims at “changing” people’s lives for “the better.”

Asked about the Arab League observer mission in Syria, Hariri said that it will either witness the “biggest flop” or that “it might also surprise us.”

Arab observers arrived in the country to monitor a deal to end nine months of deadly violence.

He stated that the Syrian crisis will not have any repercussions on Lebanon.

Concerning the Tuesday night incident at Wadi Khaled, Hariri said that if the cabinet commented on the matter, its statement “will not make any sense.”

Three Lebanese were killed in Wadi Khaled when Syrian troops entered Lebanese territory and opened fire on their car.


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