Rafiq Hariri, Fitzgerald Report

Release of the Fitzgerald Inquiry Report

The United States believes the fact-finding report into the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, presented to the Security Council today, raises serious and troubling allegations. We commend the UN mission, led by Deputy Police Commissioner Peter Fitzgerald, for its work and the report.

The United States strongly supports the recommendation of the Fitzgerald report and of the Secretary-General that an independent international commission be entrusted with conducting an investigation.

The report once again makes clear the importance of immediate and full withdrawal of all Syrian military and intelligence forces from Lebanon, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1559.

The Lebanese people deserve a government capable of leading them forward to prompt, free and fair elections, without foreign interference and in the presence of international observers.

2005/348 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 24, 2005