RIYADH — Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Lebanon Waleed Bukhari said on Thursday that "the kingdom's relations with Lebanon are too deep to be affected with irresponsible and absurd statements.”

The ambassador comments are his first after offensive comments from the leader of Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Bukhari also called on the government in Lebanon to stop activities that affect the kingdom and its neighbouring Gulf countries.

He said the Hezbollah’s terrorist activities and regional military behavior threatened Arab national security in a statement to AFP.

“Riyadh hopes that the political parties will give priority to the supreme interest of Lebanon... and end Hezbollah’s terrorist hegemony over every aspect of the state,” Bukhari said.

He added that Hezbollah’s terrorist insistence to impose its control disrupts peace in Lebanon.

Bukhari said his country affirms its constant concern for the Lebanese citizens residing in the Kingdom and it supports the Lebanese people from all sects.

“We share with the international community the responsibility to maintain Lebanon’s stability and sovereignty,” he said. — Agencies