US against Lebanon: "We have no patience for disruption of negotiations with Israel"

The US State Department condemned a complaint filed against Lebanon's ambassador to Washington, Nada Hamadeh Mouawad, after she contacted Israeli Ambassador Yehiel Leiter to inquire about the condition of his wounded son. The US alleged a political intimidation attempt by Hezbollah-affiliated figures and called on Lebanon to repeal laws enabling political persecution.

The US State Department issued a sharp statement against a complaint filed in Lebanon against Lebanon's ambassador to Washington, Nada Hamadeh Mouawad. The complaint was filed by attorney Hassan Adel Bazi, affiliated with Hezbollah, following a report that Mouawad contacted Israeli Ambassador to the US, Yehiel Leiter, to ask about the well-being of his son who was wounded in an attack. A State Department spokesperson called the proceeding "embarrassing" and claimed it was a political intimidation attempt. The US called on Lebanon to repeal laws enabling political persecution of diplomats, while Hezbollah activists enjoy protection. The affair raises concerns about harm to the negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, against the backdrop of growing tensions between the Lebanese government and Hezbollah, including reports of the interception of a shipment of explosives.