European Union chief warns Lebanon of Hezbollah threat

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that Lebanon risks international isolation unless it addresses concerns over Hezbollah's growing military power and influence. Borrell made the comments during a visit to Beirut, where he met with Lebanese President Michel Aoun and other officials. "Hezbollah's presence in the government, its stockpile of weapons, and its involvement in regional conflicts are sources of concern for the European Union and the international community," Borrell said.

The EU has long been critical of Hezbollah, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and several other countries. Borrell said that the EU is "ready to help Lebanon address these issues, but we need to see concrete steps from the Lebanese authorities." He also called on Lebanon to implement reforms that would help to strengthen its economy and improve the lives of its citizens.

The Lebanese government has been struggling to address the challenges posed by Hezbollah. The group is a powerful political and military force in Lebanon, and it has close ties to Iran. The Lebanese government has been reluctant to confront Hezbollah, fearing that it could lead to civil war. However, the EU and other international actors are increasingly pressing Lebanon to take action against the group.

The EU's warnings come at a time when Lebanon is facing a number of challenges. The country is in the midst of a severe economic crisis, and it is also struggling to cope with the influx of refugees from Syria. The EU has been providing financial and humanitarian aid to Lebanon, but it has also made it clear that it expects the Lebanese government to take steps to address the challenges it faces.