U.S. Condemns Terrorist Attack on Army, ISF in Arsal

The United States strongly condemned on Sunday the al-Nusra Front’s attack on the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in the eastern region of Arsal, where at least seven soldiers were killed and some Internal Security Forces (ISF) members were briefly held hostage, said the U.S. Department of State in a statement.

“We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims’ families and wish a full recovery to those who were wounded,” it added.

“As the violence spills over to Syria’s neighbors, including from violent extremists, we urge all parties in Lebanon to respect the Lebanese government’s policy of dissociation from regional conflicts, as stated in the Baabda Declaration,” it continued.

“The United States is committed to Lebanon’s security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity,” it stressed.

“We will continue our strong support for Lebanon’s state institutions, including the LAF and the ISF, as they work to preserve and protect a stable, sovereign, and secure Lebanon,” declared the U.S. Department of State.

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon David Hale later held talks on Sunday with Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji.

Clashes erupted on Saturday between the army and al-Nusra Front in Arsal following the arrest of a prominent member of the armed group.

Eight soldiers were killed in the unrest and a number of others were wounded.

Some 20 security forces members were taken captive during the fighting.