The bustling city of Beirut witnessed emotional scenes on Friday as thousands congregated to honor the 20th anniversary of ex-Prime Minister Rafik Hariri's assassination. This significant moment arrives amidst transformative political dynamics in the region, notably the overthrow of Bashar Assad, ending a long-standing family dominion in Syria. The fall of Assad’s regime, often linked to Hariri’s tragic assassination, signifies a critical reshaping of power structures.
Equally pivotal is the turmoil within Hezbollah. The organization faces new challenges following the death of Hassan Nasrallah, its leader, during an Israeli airstrike last September. Hariri's son, Saad Hariri, addressed Beirut's massive crowd, asserting, “Justice begins here. Those who tried to destroy my father’s vision are now at the mercy of karma.”
Newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam commemorated Hariri at his burial place earlier in the day, saying, “Hariri left behind a legacy of unity and progress that not only served Lebanon but earned him respect worldwide.” This sentiment was echoed by President Joseph Aoun, emphasizing Hariri’s role in national unity and peace.
The complex tapestry of Hariri's assassination, dating back to a February 14, 2005 explosion near Beirut’s iconic St. Georges Hotel, saw 21 other lives lost and hundreds injured. The U.N.-backed tribunal in 2020 convicted a Hezbollah operative for involvement, marking a controversial chapter in Lebanon’s history.
This tragic incident catalyzed the “Cedar Revolution,” driving massive anti-Syrian demonstrations and culminating in Syria’s military withdrawal. Despite their withdrawal, the assassination deepened Lebanon’s sectarian rifts and strengthened Hezbollah’s political grip.
Buses ferried throngs of supporters, who brandished Lebanese and Hariri's Future Movement flags, uniting a nation in mourning and memory. One attendee, Mohammad Kanaan, reflected, “In this very square, we ended the Syrian regime's hold on Lebanon.”
As supporters rallied, the anniversary marks a turning point with Israel’s scheduled troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon under a sensitive ceasefire with Hezbollah, negotiated last November. Lebanon’s political leaders, including Speaker Nabih Berri, emphasize adherence to this timeline, underscoring national sovereignty concerns.
Moreover, the recent governmental formation spearheaded by Prime Minister Salam symbolizes renewed efforts for reform and stability. With Salam’s leadership, Lebanon hopes to tackle the enduring economic crisis, seeking reinstatement of ties with key Arab states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, historically aligned with Hariri's Lebanon.
The international community, including the United States, expresses guarded optimism for Lebanon's future, despite reservations about Hezbollah's influence. Salam's administration is encouraged to enact crucial financial reforms to restore Lebanon's economic health and international standing.
The remembrance of Rafik Hariri thus transcends mere nostalgia; it is emblematic of Lebanon’s larger quest for justice, unity, and revitalization, amid a shifting geopolitical landscape. For the Lebanese people, this day is not only a somber reflection but also a beacon pointing toward a hopeful, liberated future.
