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EU strongly condemns attacks against Lebanese armed forces

BRUSSELS, Aug 29 (KUNA) -- The European Union Friday strongly condemned continued attacks by violent extremist groups against the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in the area of Arsal in eastern Lebanon, which resulted in the death and injury of LAF soldiers and officers. "Those abducted must be released immediately," Sأ©bastien Brabant, Deputy Spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said in a press statement.
"The EU fully supports Lebanon in all efforts needed to address the severe security, political, economic and social challenges the country is facing," he noted .
The statement welcomed the determination of Lebanese political leaders to put an end to terrorism and violent extremism, and commended the Lebanese security agencies for their joint efforts in responding, on the front line, to the numerous security threats and challenges.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to the unity, stability, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon.
"We will continue to provide assistance to Lebanon, both in our bilateral relation and in response to the Syrian crisis," added Brabant.
The EU official was alluding to recurring attacks waged by gunmen of Syria-based radical groups across the Syria-Lebanon borders, targeting Lebanese Army's positions around Arsal. On Thursday, the army said one soldier "was missing" following an attack on a patrol near Arsal.
The region has recently witnessed fierce fighting between the army and the gunmen, who were forced to withdraw from Arsal, however, they took a number of soldiers as hostages with them. (end) nk.rk