U.S. measures to prevent Hezbollah from accessing the Lebanese financial system

WASHINGTON, D.C. / BEIRUT — U.S Department of the Treasury Under Secretary of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson met with the Board of Directors of the Banking Association in Lebanon to discuss Hezbollah.

Nelson called on Lebanese banks and government institutions to participate in reform, by addressing corruption and preventing Hezbollah from accessing the Lebanese financial system, according to the statement distributed by the Banking Association.

He also encouraged Lebanese banks to take stricter measures to protect the financial system from corruption and increase financial scrutiny on prominent political figures and identifying their sources of money.

“Banks that do not take the necessary measures may be subjected to sanctions,” he added.

A source from the Association stated they had told Nelson about their commitment to fighting terrorism and preventing Hezbollah’s or any association linked to from benefiting from banking sector services.