Security is beefed up in Lebanon in advance of the funeral of Pierre Gemayel

Описание: (22 Nov 2006) HEADLINE: Mourning the loss of a leader
CAPTION: Lebanese mourners wept and showered rice Wednesday on the coffin of a slain government minister who opposed Syrian influence in this divided nation, as his supporters mobilized for a massive show of force at his funeral in the capital, Beirut. (Nov. 22)
[Notes:ANCHOR VOICE]
They are mourning in Lebanon.
Many turned out Wednesday to cry and throw rice on the coffin of slain government minister Pierre Gemayel.
The prominent Christian leader was assassinated Tuesday, and his body was returned to his hometown a day before his burial.
His death has sparked increased tensions in the divided country and his funeral could serve as a mass rallying call against pro-Syrian groups including Hezbollah.
Hezbollah has called off all of its protests and rallies in the coming days in an effort to restore calm.
Still, though, there are fears that volatile situation could escalate in the coming days and security forces have set up checkpoints.
Wednesday, though, was about mourning and remembering the slain leader.
Religious and political leaders were among the hundreds who turned out and they praised Gemayel for his dedication to human rights and efforts to create an independent and free Lebanon.

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