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Cedar Revolution

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description Cedar Revolution Overview

The Cedar Revolution was a series of protests in Lebanon sparked by the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri on February 14, 2005. The movement gained its name from the cedar tree, Lebanon's national symbol, and involved massive demonstrations in Beirut. The protests demanded an end to Syrian military presence in Lebanon, which had lasted for nearly three decades since 1976. International pressure, including UN Resolution 1559, combined with the popular uprising, led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops by April 2005.

The revolution marked a significant turning point in Lebanese politics, resulting in changes to the government and Syria-Lebanon relations.

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What triggered the Cedar Revolution in Lebanon?

The movement followed the assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri on February 14, 2005. His death led to large demonstrations in Beirut and growing demands for an end to Syrian political and military control of Lebanon. [Associated Press overview](https://apnews.com/article/0ebf3a41d4c6d7e5b7c5b8d7e0d7a4d3)

Why is it called the Cedar Revolution?

The cedar refers to the cedar tree on Lebanon's national flag and the country's national identity. Protesters used the symbol to frame the movement as a demand for Lebanese sovereignty rather than simply a dispute between rival parties.

What was the main political demand of the Cedar Revolution?

The central demand was Lebanese independence from Syrian military and intelligence influence. Syria completed its withdrawal of troops, military assets and intelligence apparatus from Lebanon on April 26, 2005, after pressure from the protests and United Nations Resolution 1559. [United Nations report](https://www.un.org/unispal/document/auto-insert-182439/)

What were the March 14 and March 8 labels in the Cedar Revolution?

March 14 refers to the large anti-Syrian rally held in Beirut on March 14, 2005, and later became the name of a political coalition. March 8 referred to a rival pro-Syrian demonstration and alliance, showing that the revolution also reshaped Lebanon's internal political camps.

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