Lebanon dismisses Israeli warnings over Hezbollah

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

BEIRUT (AFP) — Lebanese Foreign Minister Fawzi Salukh dismissed as "ravings" on Thursday Israeli threats to target the country's civilian infrastructure if the government gives greater legitimacy to the Shiite militant group Hezbollah.

"Who says the government is giving legitimacy to Hezbollah? ... These are just ravings conjured up by the Israelis to tarnish Lebanon's image," Salukh told AFP.

"It's based on exaggerations by Mossad and the Israeli intelligence services."

A number of Israeli leaders have issued warnings to Lebanon in recent days after the formation of a national unity government in which the Hezbollah-led opposition has 11 ministries and the power of veto over cabinet decisions.

"The moment the Lebanese government confers legitimacy...