On April 18, 1983, 63 people — Americans and Lebanese colleagues, friends, and loved ones — were killed in a terrorist attack by Hizballah on the U.S. Embassy in Beirut. All were working together to build a brighter future for the country and the region. Forty years later, we continue to mourn the individuals whose lives were cut short and honor their sacrifice. People in Lebanon continue to live under threat of violence from Hizballah and its patron, Iran.
The United States remains committed to countering terrorism wherever it occurs — and protecting our colleagues wherever they serve. And America continues to stand with the Lebanese people, as they strive — often in the face of profound obstacles — to build a more stable, secure, and prosperous future.
On this solemn day, we rededicate ourselves to these enduring goals — and to the partnerships, including with the Lebanese people, that will help us reach them.