The United States is preparing a fresh wave of sanctions aimed at crippling Hezbollah’s financial networks and curbing corruption within Lebanon’s political establishment, Nidaa Al-Watan revealed. With a renewed focus on economic pressure, Washington is set to escalate its efforts against individuals and entities linked to the Iran-backed group, as well as those facilitating illicit financial activities.

According to the report, the U.S. Senate is finalizing a comprehensive sanctions package targeting Hezbollah-affiliated individuals and corrupt Lebanese officials. Expected to be enacted by March or April, the measures represent one of the most aggressive financial crackdowns to date.

A sanctions bill, originally drafted months ago, was reviewed by Congress and presented to the White House during the final days of Joe Biden’s presidency. It has since been refined under the new administration, aligning closely with the Hezbollah Accountability Act, which designates the group as a terrorist organization and imposes severe financial restrictions on its operations.

The legislation also proposes legal changes aimed at preventing Hezbollah and similar organizations from exerting political influence in Lebanon. These include barring individuals and parties with ties to terrorist groups from holding public office or influencing government decisions.

Expanding the Sanctions List

The bill is currently under review by the Congressional Intelligence Committee, which is finalizing a list of sanctioned individuals. As of now, the list includes:

• 140 high-ranking figures from the Syrian regime, including ousted President Bashar al-Assad, his brother Maher, intelligence chief Ali Mamlouk, and senior military officers. These individuals face sanctions for violating the Caesar Act and supporting Hezbollah and Iran.
• Over 300 individuals in Lebanon, linked to Hezbollah, the Amal Movement, and other entities accused of facilitating illicit financial activities both within and outside state institutions.

Unlike previous measures, which primarily involved asset freezes and travel bans, the upcoming sanctions will introduce arrest warrants and extradition requests. Those sanctioned will not only face financial restrictions but will also be subject to legal action if they enter jurisdictions cooperating with the U.S.

Targeting Hezbollah’s Financial Network

American authorities have gathered substantial intelligence on Hezbollah’s financial operations, uncovering a vast network of money laundering and illicit trade. The new sanctions are designed to dismantle these financial channels by targeting:

• Front companies and institutions used to funnel illicit funds.
• Money laundering operations within Lebanon’s banking system.
• International narcotics trade, which has already led to the arrest of Hezbollah-linked individuals in the U.S.

Recent testimonies from detained Hezbollah operatives have provided critical details about the organization’s financial structure, strengthening Washington’s ability to disrupt its economic lifelines.

Implications for Lebanon’s Political Landscape

The upcoming sanctions will have far-reaching consequences for Lebanon’s governance. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri—himself a potential target for U.S. sanctions—and Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s Hezbollah-backed government will face increased pressure. Additionally, Israel is expected to continue its military strikes on Hezbollah assets, emboldened by Washington’s stance.

While Congress remains focused on weakening Hezbollah, the legislation also outlines measures to support Lebanon’s legitimate institutions. The draft provides a roadmap for strengthening state governance, reducing corruption, and restoring institutions that have been undermined by Hezbollah’s influence.