Carter Says Hizbullah Mirrors Iran's Malevolent Activities

U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter stated on Wednesday that Hizbullah is a “perfect example” of Iran's role in the Middle East.

“The United States has kept the sanctions against Iran in relation to terrorism and ballistic missiles. Hizbullah is the perfect example of Iran's malicious activity in the region,” said Carter.

His comments came after meeting with defense minsters of the Gulf states in Riyadh.

“During the meeting, it has been agreed to conduct joint naval patrols to confront Iran's arms smuggling,” he added.

“I have reiterated today, to the defense minsters, our country's commitment for the security of the Gulf countries,” said Carter.

He noted that the cooperation with the Gulf countries to promote security and fight terrorism will carry on.

“The American partnership with the GCC is steady in the face of Iran's destabilizing activities. The nuclear deal with Iran aims to back stability without imposing restrictions on us. Washington will continue its efforts to confront the Iranian violations,” he stressed.

Carter who is accompanying U.S. President Barack Obama landed in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday in an effort to ease tensions with Riyadh.

On Thursday, the president will attend a summit with the six Gulf Cooperation Council monarchies, joined by Carter and Secretary of State John Kerry.

They will gather in an atmosphere of bitterness with regional leaders offended by Obama's tone and actions, particularly what they see as his reluctance to get involved in Syria and other regional problems, as well as his tilt towards Iran.

The Sunni Gulf monarchies are worried after the lifting this year of international sanctions against their regional rival, Shiite Iran.

Riyadh and its neighbors fear the U.S.-supported international deal to curb Iran's nuclear program will embolden the country, which they accuse of interference throughout the Middle East.

D.A.

G.K./M.T.