US voices concern over presence of Hezbollah terrorist group in new Lebanese government

The United States welcomed on Friday the formation of a new government in Lebanonwith whom he hopes to strengthen his bilateral relations, although he worried about the presence in the Cabinet of the Shiite group Hezbollah, an organization that Washington considers "terrorist".

State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said in a statement that USA congratulates President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri on this "historic occasion".

"We hope to collaborate with the new Lebanese government to further strengthen our bilateral relations", said Palladino, who expressed Washington's commitment to continue to support "in building a stable and prosperous future" for this country.

In addition, he provided that the Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, plans to travel to Lebanon, without specifying the date.

Palladino pointed out that the United States is waiting for the new government "takes urgent measures" to improve the difficult economic situation in Lebanonwhile expressing its "strong support" for the security, stability and sovereignty of this country.

The ministries are divided equally between Christians and Muslims and one of them represents the six deputies of the Shiite group Hezbollah., which until now prevented the formation of the Cabinet because they asked to be present.

"We are concerned that Hezbollah, designated by the United States as a foreign terrorist organization, continues to hold ministerial positions and may appoint the Minister of Public Health" said the spokesperson.

In this direction, USA has asked the new executive to ensure that the resources and services of these ministries do not provide support to Hezbollah.

In addition, He said that he hoped that the parties making up the new government would support Lebanon's policy of disbadociating itself from regional conflicts.

The spokesman also highlighted the efforts of the Lebanese representatives of avoid increasing tensions along the so-called blue line, which acts as the border between the Arab country and Israel.

(With information from EFE)