Fletcher Condemns Assassination of Hasan, Calls on Lebanese to Unite

British Ambassador to Lebanon Tom Fletcher denounced on Saturday the assassination of Internal Security Forces Intelligence Bureau head Brigadier General Wissam al-Hasan, calling on the Lebanese to unite.

“The attack is against the Lebanese state and its people and all those who love Lebanon... We will cooperate with the Lebanese authorities in the upcoming days to encourage unity, stability and sovereignty,” Fletcher said after holding talks with President Michel Suleiman at the Baabda Palace.

He told reporters that those who are behind the assassination seek to destabilize the country and divided it.

“We shouldn't allow them to achieve their goals,” Fletcher pointed out.

The ambassador noted that he discussed with Suleiman ways to support the Lebanese Armed Forces in its efforts to arrest the culprits and achieve justice.

Fletcher also held talks with Prime Minister Najib Miqati at the Grand Serail.

He expressed fear over the “critical” political and security situation in the country.

However, Fletcher noted that “Lebanon will be able to surpass this stage.”

Asked if Britain support the cabinet, he stated that his country “supports the Lebanese state and its leaders in their efforts to unite and reject division.”

Hasan killed in a massive car bomb on Friday, had himself returned to Lebanon the previous day.

He will be laid to rest on Sunday in the mausoleum of his mentor Hariri, who was assassinated in 2005.

The assassination of Hasan, who blamed Damascus for a series of political assassinations in Lebanon including that of former premier Rafik Hariri, has shaken the country's fragile political structure.