Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi voiced alarm about developments in Lebanon on Saturday after talks with Syrian leaders about the quickening troop withdrawal by the Islamic Republic's key Arab ally. Kharazi expressed the "Iranian government's concern and growing fear" about developments since the February 14 assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in a Beirut bomb blast blamed by the Lebanese opposition on Syria and its local allies. In Lebanon, Friday night's blast triggered a wave of reactions among officials, who harshly denounced the attack, describing it as an attempt to destabilize the country's security. President Emile Lahoud said the wave of bombings striking the country was aimed at insinuating Lebanese security forces could not control the security situation, and damaging the country's economy and commerce. Lahoud said the bombings aimed at "doubting the ability of the Lebanese security forces to maintain law and order in the country." He also accused the enemies of Lebanon of attacking the country's stability and targeting national unity by spreading fear and panic among citizens. Lahoud added: "Such tactics will not terrify the Lebanese, who are now determined, more than ever, to maintain their national unity and solidarity." |