US strongly condemns bombings in Lebanon

The United States strongly condemned the "terrorist" bombings in Tripoli, Lebanon, urging all parties to exercise restraint. "The United States strongly condemns today's terrorist bombings at the al-Taqwa and al-Danawi mosques in Tripoli, as we do all violence in Lebanon," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Marie Harf said in a statement, late on Friday. She stressed that the US "urge all parties to exercise calm and restraint and to desist from actions that could contribute to an escalating cycle of retribution and violence." "We reaffirm our firm commitment to a stable, sovereign, and independent Lebanon and support the Lebanese government's efforts to restore stability and security in the country," she affirmed. "We extend our deepest sympathies for those killed and concern for those wounded" in the attack, she remarked