Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia welcomed on Saturday the Australian government's intention to designate Hezbollah with its political and military wings as a terrorist organization in Australia.

The Saudi foreign affairs ministry noted the importance of this step in strengthening international peace and security, and urges the international community to take a similar stance to confront terrorism and terrorist groups around the world.

The US State Department also welcomed Australia’s decision. It said in a statement: “Erasing the erroneous distinction between Hezbollah’s military wing and the rest of the terrorist organization is a critical step forward.”

“Hezbollah is a dangerous terrorist organization that threatens the safety of the international community and undermines the sovereignty of the Lebanese state. The organization’s robust paramilitary and terrorist capabilities, as well as its propaganda machine and corrupt financial networks, are major obstacles to peace and stability in Lebanon, in the Middle East and around the world.,” it added.

Australia had announced on Wednesday designating Hezbollah – both its political and military wings – as a “terrorist organization.” Belonging to or financing the group is now banned in Australia, where a large Lebanese community lives.