US sanctions Lebanese figures over Hezbollah ties

The United States Treasury has imposed sanctions on prominent Lebanese figures, including Marada Movement chief Suleiman Franjieh and Hezbollah political council deputy head Mahmoud Qmati. The U.S. accuses them of using their influence to hinder Lebanon's peace process and delay the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Hezbollah must disarm for Lebanon to achieve a secure and prosperous future. He emphasized the Treasury's commitment to targeting Hezbollah's financial networks and holding accountable those who allow the group to undermine the Lebanese state and threaten peace prospects.

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Hezbollah must disarm for Lebanon to achieve a secure and prosperous future.

The Treasury detailed that Hezbollah relies on a network of officials to maintain power across Lebanese political and security establishments. Franjieh is accused of leveraging his alliance with Hezbollah for political gain, accepting financial support in exchange for backing the group's efforts to secure parliamentary seats for allies. Qmati, according to the Treasury, coordinates cash smuggling from Iran for Hezbollah and promotes the group's interests within Lebanon.

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Treasury will continue to target Hezbollah’s financial networks and hold accountable those who enable the group to undermine the Lebanese state and threaten prospects for lasting peace.