US summons Syrian envoy over Hezbollah
The Syrian embassy has dismissed the allegations that it arms Hezbollah
The US has summoned Syria's most senior diplomat to review its "provocative behaviour" concerning the potential transfer of weapons to Hezbollah.
The state department told the deputy chief of mission in Washington, Zouheir Jabbour, that it condemned the arming of the Lebanese Shia Islamist group.
Particular concern was raised about the possible transfer of Scud missiles.
Last week, Israel's president accused Damascus of supplying the ballistic missiles to Hezbollah's military wing.
Hezbollah fought a 34-day conflict with Israel in 2006 during which more than 1,200 Lebanese people, mostly civilians, were killed. Some 160 Israeli people, most of whom were soldiers, also died.
'Amplified message'
UN Security Council resolution 1701, which ended the conflict, included an arms embargo on Lebanon, except for transfers authorised by the Lebanese government or UN.
But many analysts believe Hezbollah has since been rebuilding its arsenal with the help of its backers, Syria and Iran.
They say that if the group obtains ballistic missiles, it could alter the military balance in the region, putting all of Israel within reach.