EU Designates Hezbollah Military Wing as Terrorist Organization

After months of debate and pressure from the United States and Israel, the European Union (EU) decided yesterday to designate the military wing of Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, but refused to cut off ties with the entire Hezbollah organization. The EU took the action following concerns about suspected Hezbollah involvement in terrorist activities in Europe, including a deadly attack on Israeli tourists in Bulgaria and the conviction of an operative in Cyprus for plotting an attack against Israelis.

The details of the restrictions have not been announced yet, but news report indicate that they are likely to include travel bans and asset freezes. The move will allow the EU to continue to deal with the political wing of Hezbollah.

(cgb)