UNITED NATIONS, Feb 17: The UN Security Council has called for an urgent report from the secretary-general on the 'circumstances, causes and consequences' of the assassination of Lebanon's former prime minister Rafik Hariri.

Condemning the attack 'unequivocally', the council called on the Lebanese government to bring to justice "the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of this heinous terrorist act", voicing concern at its possible impact on ongoing efforts by the people of Lebanon to solidify the country's democracy, including upcoming parliamentary elections.

"Such a terrorist act should not jeopardize the holding of these elections in transparent, free and democratic conditions," the 15-member body added in a statement read by the Council president, Joel W. Adechi of Benin.

"The Security Council is concerned by the potential for further destabilization of Lebanon, and expresses hope that the Lebanese people will be able to emerge from this terrible event united, and to use peaceful means in support of their long-standing national aspiration to full sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity," the presidential statement said.