Gulf states declare Hezbollah a 'terrorist' group

Gulf states on Wednesday declared Lebanon's Hezbollah a "terrorist" group, in the latest regional move against the Shiite organization fighting in support of Syria's regime.

The six-member Gulf Cooperation Council took the action against Hezbollah members because of "hostile actions of the militia who recruit the young people (of the Gulf) for terrorist acts," GCC Secretary General Abdullatif al-Zayani said in a statement.

Gulf nations have taken a series of measures against Hezbollah since Saudi Arabia last month halted a $3 billion program funding French military supplies to Beirut.

Hezbollah is backed by Iran, with whom Saudi Arabia's relations have worsened this year. The two are on opposing sides in conflicts in Syria and Yemen.

Riyadh cut diplomatic ties with Tehran after demonstrators burned its embassy and a consulate following the Saudi execution of a prominent Shiite cleric.

The GCC comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
  [alarabiya.net]
2/3/16
--
-
Related:

• Arab League statement: Lebanon, Iraq Abstain from Voting on Arab League’s Statement on Iran 

• Lebanon calls on Saudi Arabia to revise decision of halting aid