U.N., U.S. Condemn Attack on Soldiers in Ras Baalbek, Stay Committed to Supporting Army

The United Nations and the U.S. State Department have condemned the deadly attack on Lebanese troops in Ras Baalbek near the Syrian border, reiterating their commitment to support the army.

U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Derek Plumbly “strongly condemned” the attack and “expressed his condolences to the families of those killed and to the people and government of Lebanon.”

He paid tribute to “the determination and dedication shown by the Lebanese army in their efforts to maintain security and stability, and to the sacrifices as they seek to protect Lebanon.”

“He underlined again the strength of the commitment of the United Nations and the international community to support for the army.”

Deputy State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf also said on Tuesday that the U.S. condemns the attack and extends its “sincere condolences to the victim’s family and wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured.”

“The United States remains committed to strong support for the Lebanese armed forces as they protect Lebanon’s sovereignty and security and combat violent extremists,” she told reporters.

An army statement said Tuesday that a patrol was conducting a “surveillance mission” in an area on the outskirts of Ras Baalbek at 5:15 pm when it was ambushed by a terrorist group.

A clash ensued between the patrol's members and the militants which resulted in the death of six soldiers and the injury of another, the statement added.

G.K.

H.K.