20 Years After Hariri’s Assassination, Lebanon Faces a New Reality
Two decades after the assassination of Rafic Hariri, Lebanon continues to grapple with the political and social changes that followed his death. As The Media Line’s Taylor Thomas reports, thousands gathered in Beirut’s Martyrs’ Square to mark the 20th anniversary of the massive explosion that killed the former prime minister and 21 others, a moment that reshaped the country’s trajectory. Hariri’s assassination in 2005 sparked mass protests against Syrian occupation, leading to the Cedar Revolution and the withdrawal of Syrian forces. His legacy, particularly his efforts to strengthen Lebanese sovereignty and curb foreign influence, remains deeply embedded in the nation’s history.
Hariri, who played a crucial role in Lebanon’s post-civil war reconstruction and the Taif Agreement, made powerful enemies with his push to reduce Hezbollah’s military presence and limit Syrian and Iranian influence. Many saw his assassination as a direct consequence of these efforts. In 2022, a UN-backed tribunal convicted two Hezbollah members in absentia for the bombing, but the group has refused to surrender them.
This holiday season, give to:
Truth and understanding
The Media Line's intrepid correspondents are in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Pakistan providing first-person reporting.
They all said they cover it.
We see it.
We report with just one agenda: the truth.
Lebanon has since endured further political turmoil, economic crises, and war. The latest conflict with Israel has left nearly 4,000 dead, weakening Hezbollah’s grip on power and ushering in a new government. Many Lebanese, including 22-year-old Omar Saadi, expressed hope for a fresh start, envisioning a Lebanon that regains its past stability. Saad Hariri, speaking to Future Movement supporters, reassured them of his continued commitment.
To understand the lasting impact of Rafic Hariri’s assassination and how Lebanon has evolved since, read the full article by Taylor Thomas on The Media Line.
