France condemns new attack in Beirut, urges fight against terrorism

France on Thursday strongly condemned the attack in South Beirut earlier in the day which killed several people and wounded dozens and urged the Lebanese government to remain determined in the fight against terrorism. "France condemns with the greatest firmness the attack carried out this afternoon in the suburbs of south Beirut," a statement said. The attack which appeared to aim at the Hezbollah faction in Lebanon comes only days after the Dec 27 assassination of former Finance Minister Mohammed Shatah. "France reiterates its commitment to the stability of Lebanon and calls on all Lebanese to work to avoid an escalation of violence and to preserve national unity," the statement added. Paris also expressed support for the Lebanese authorities "in their determination to combat all forms of terrorism as well as their commitment to fight against impunity."