Special to WorldTribune.com

LONDON — The European Union has agreed to designate what it termed
the military wing of Hizbullah as a terrorist group.

EU foreign ministers said Hizbullah’s military wing would be designated
a terrorist entity, a classification meant to freeze the assets of the
Shi’ite militia in Europe. They said the designation would not hamper EU aid
to Hizbullah’s host, Lebanon.

“Due to the concerns of the role of the Hizbullah we have agreed to designate its military wing on the list of terrorist organizations,” EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said.

At a news conference on July 22, Ms. Ashton did not say how the designation would change EU policy. After the decision, at least one EU member, Italy, said it would continue its political dialogue with Hizbullah, with representation in the Lebanese parliament.

“But it does not prevent the continuation of dialogue with all political parties in Lebanon,” Ms Ashton said. “The delivery of financial assistance to Lebanon will not be affected. The position will be reviewed on a six monthly basis.”

Diplomats said Britain and the Netherlands led the drive for the EU
designation. They said the bombing of an Israeli tourist bus in Bulgaria in
2012 was attributed to Hizbullah, which diplomats assert contains a secret
military wing.

“This designation will have a significant impact on Hizbullah’s ability
to operate freely in Europe by enabling European law enforcement agencies to
crack down on Hizbullah’s fundraising, logistical activity, and terrorist
plotting on European soil,” U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said.

  Catherine Ashton, EU puts Hizbullah on list of terrorist organizations, John Kerry