The United States has announced new sanctions targeting two Hezbollah-aligned Lebanese officials and a network of business associates accused of supporting the Iran-backed group. The move aims to weaken what the US describes as a significant obstacle to Lebanon’s recovery and stability. The US State Department stated that the designated officials have actively worked to undermine the authority of the Lebanese state, hindering efforts to establish a sovereign and independent Lebanon.
The sanctions also extend to additional associates connected to the network in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Oman. These individuals and entities are alleged to be involved in fundraising, executing contracts, and operating front companies to generate revenue for Hezbollah. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the necessity for Hezbollah to disarm for Lebanon to achieve a secure and prosperous future.
Among those sanctioned are Sleiman Antoine Frangie, leader of the Lebanese Marada Movement, and Mahmoud Qamati, deputy head of Hezbollah’s political council. Frangie is accused of leveraging his ties with Hezbollah for political purposes, while Qamati is said to have coordinated cash smuggling from Iran for the group. The sanctions package also encompasses companies and individuals associated with Hamieh’s business activities in various countries, aiding in revenue generation for Hezbollah through commercial projects and financial transactions.
The State Department spokesperson reiterated that Hezbollah, deemed a terrorist organization, prioritizes Iran over Lebanon. Describing Hezbollah as the primary impediment to Lebanon’s recovery and future, the spokesperson emphasized the necessity for the group to disarm, its infrastructure to be dismantled, and for Lebanon to regain control of its future to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
