Hezbollah reacts to Syrian sanctions

BEIRUT, Lebanon, Aug. 3 (UPI) -- A decision by Washington to extend economic sanctions against Damascus smacks of imperialism, a statement from the Lebanese Hezbollah says.

U.S. President Barack Obama on Thursday said that despite improved ties between Syria and Lebanon, certain actions from Damascus continued to pose a threat to U.S. national security.

"The actions of certain persons continue to contribute to political and economic instability in Lebanon and continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States," a White House statement read.

Syria faced sweeping condemnation for its influence over Lebanon following the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Apart of Syrian interests, the sanctions could target several former parliamentary officials in the Lebanese government.

Hezbollah, an influential ally of Syria, lashed out at the sanctions decision, blaming Washington for meddling in Lebanese affairs, the Daily Star, a Lebanese newspaper, reports.

Hezbollah in a statement, however, said it was concerned only with the effects the sanctions would have on Lebanese individuals.

"It's not about the U.S. sanctions on Syria; it's more for the Lebanese people," a Hezbollah statement read. "Syria speaks for itself; we are speaking for our officials."