Assassination of Rafik Hariri - February 14, 2005

On February 14, 2005, former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri was assassinated in a massive car bomb explosion in Beirut, Lebanon. This event marked a pivotal moment in Lebanese history, leading to significant political and social upheaval.

Background

Rafik Hariri was a prominent Lebanese businessman and politician who served as Prime Minister of Lebanon from 1992 to 1998 and again from 2000 to 2004. He was credited with playing a crucial role in rebuilding Beirut after the Lebanese Civil War and was known for his efforts to stabilize the Lebanese economy. Hariri’s political stance was characterized by his opposition to Syrian influence in Lebanon, which had been significant since the end of the civil war.

The Assassination

• Date: February 14, 2005
• Location: Beirut, Lebanon
• Method: A car bomb exploded near Hariri’s motorcade as it traveled through the city. The explosion killed Hariri and 21 others, and injured over 200 people. The blast was so powerful that it left a crater in the street and caused extensive damage to nearby buildings.

Immediate Aftermath

The assassination sent shockwaves throughout Lebanon and the international community. It was widely believed that Syrian intelligence and their Lebanese allies were involved, although Syria denied any involvement. The event intensified existing tensions between pro-Syrian and anti-Syrian factions within Lebanon.

The Cedar Revolution

The assassination sparked widespread protests known as the “Cedar Revolution,” named after the national symbol of Lebanon. These protests were characterized by:

• Mass Demonstrations: Hundreds of thousands of Lebanese citizens took to the streets demanding the withdrawal of Syrian troops and the end of Syrian influence in Lebanese politics.
• Political Pressure: The protests led to increased international pressure on Syria, particularly from Western countries and the United Nations.

Withdrawal of Syrian Troops

As a result of both domestic and international pressure, Syria announced the withdrawal of its troops from Lebanon. By April 2005, Syrian forces had fully withdrawn, ending a nearly 29-year military presence in the country.

Broader Historical Significance

• Political Change: The assassination and subsequent protests led to significant political changes in Lebanon, including the resignation of the pro-Syrian government.
• International Investigation: The United Nations established the Special Tribunal for Lebanon to investigate the assassination. In 2020, the tribunal convicted a member of Hezbollah in absentia for the assassination.
• Legacy: Hariri’s assassination remains a defining moment in Lebanese history, symbolizing the struggle for sovereignty and the complex interplay of regional politics.

The events following Hariri’s assassination highlighted the deep-seated issues within Lebanon and the broader Middle East, underscoring the ongoing challenges of political independence and stability in the region.