In anti-Iran push, Trump signs new sanctions bill targeting Hezbollah
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has signed legislation imposing new sanctions against Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terrorist group behind the 1983 Beirut barracks bombings.
Speaking Thursday at a White House event marking the 35th anniversary of the attack that killed 241 Marines, Trump said, “No terrorist group other than al-Qaida has more American blood on its hands.”
Trump is also taking credit for reimposing sanctions on Iran after he pulled out of the 2015 Iran nuclear accord, in part by citing its support for international terrorist groups. Trump is promising even tougher actions against Iran after most sanctions against the country return to effect on November 5.
The bill expands the list of those who can be sanctioned for doing business with Hezbollah.
Hezbollah’s calls for donations have intensified in past months as the group and its main backer Iran come under increasing financial pressure under sanctions from the Trump administration.
Washington has imposed sanctions on the militant group for decades. But a new wave this year appears to be more serious about targeting Hezbollah’s top leadership as well as businessmen and companies that Washington says are funding the group.
The latest hit came October 15, when US attorney general Jeff Sessions designated Hezbollah as one of five groups considered top transnational organized crime threats.