WASHINGTON, Feb 14: The United States said on Monday it would work with its allies and the UN Security Council to end Syria's military presence in Lebanon and to "punish those responsible" for killing former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri.

"We'll consult with the Security Council and with others on how to punish those responsible," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said, adding that it was too soon to be sure who carried out the massive bombing that killed Mr Hariri.

"The people of Lebanon deserve the freedom to choose their leaders, free of intimidation, terror and foreign occupation," Mr McClellan said. "The US will consult with other governments in the region and on the Security Council about measures that can be taken to punish those responsible for this terrorist attack, to end the use of violence and intimidation against the Lebanese people, and to restore Lebanon's independence", he said. -AFP