U.N. Calls for Presidential Election 'as Soon as Possible' without 'External Interference'

The U.N. Security Council expressed "disappointment and concern" Thursday that an election of a new Lebanese president has not occurred and demanded that polls be held without delay.

In a unanimous declaration, the Council's 15 member states urged the country's parliament "to uphold Lebanon's long standing democratic tradition and to work to ensure that presidential elections take place as soon as possible and without external interference."

Over the past two months, the parliament convened five times to try to elect a successor to President Michel Suleiman but failed each time due to a lack of quorum caused by the differences between the March 8 and 14 alliances.

Meanwhile, Suleiman left Baabda Palace on Sunday after his six-year term expired.

The Council said it "reiterates its full support for the government of Lebanon to discharge its duties during this interim period."

It also emphasized "the need for sustained international support to Lebanon in addressing the economic, security and humanitarian challenges."

In addition, the Council "stressed the importance for all Lebanese parties to... refrain from any involvement in the Syrian crisis."