Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة تستهدف مسؤولي حزب الله بعقوبات جديدة

The United States has imposed sanctions on nine individuals it accuses of enabling Hezbollah to undermine Lebanon’s sovereignty. This action aims to disrupt the group’s financial networks globally. According to Al Jazeera, the sanctions were announced by the US Department of the Treasury, which stated that these individuals were designated for obstructing the peace process in Lebanon and impeding the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Among those sanctioned are four members of Hezbollah, including Mohamed Abdel-Mottaleb Fanich, a leader in Hezbollah’s executive council, and Nizammeddine Fadlallah, one of the group’s elected members of the Lebanese parliament. The list also includes Iranian ambassador-designate to Lebanon, Mohammad Reza Sheibani, and several security officials linked to Hezbollah and the Amal Movement. US officials are offering a reward of up to $10 million for information that could disrupt Hezbollah’s financial operations.

Hezbollah responded to the sanctions, labeling them an attempt to intimidate the free Lebanese people and asserting that they would have absolutely no practical effect on the group’s strategic choices. The organization described the sanctions as a “badge of honour” for those targeted.

The announcement of these sanctions coincides with ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon, which have intensified despite a recently extended ceasefire. Reports indicate that Israeli air raids and shelling have resulted in numerous casualties, further complicating the already tense situation in the region. Meanwhile, US-brokered peace talks between Israel and Lebanon are set to resume soon, with a focus on disarmament and security issues.

The US continues to emphasize the need for good-faith negotiations, while Hezbollah maintains its opposition to the talks. The Lebanese army has confirmed its commitment to participating in the upcoming negotiations, underscoring the complex dynamics at play in the region.