Israel warns Syria over Hezbollah support

[Herschel]

TONY EASTLEY: One of Israel's top military commanders is warning that his country could use force against Syria, if it keeps up its support for the Islamic guerrilla group, Hezbollah.

Israel says the Lebanon-based militia has now taken delivery of missiles capable of hitting its cities.

In the United States, the Bush administration is preparing to announce sanctions against Syria over its alleged support for terrorist groups.

Middle East Correspondent Mark Willacy reports from the Israel-Lebanon border.

(Sound of hydraulics, people talking)

MARK WILLACY: High up in the mountainous border region of northern Israel, soldiers swivel their heavy guns towards a potential target.

Just a few hundred metres away is Lebanon, and the positions of one of Israel's most formidable enemies.

AVITAL LIEBOVICH: Hezbollah is no longer a guerrilla organisation.

Major Avital Liebovich is with Israel's northern command.

AVITAL LIEBOVICH: We're talking about a semi-military terror organisation. It has ranks, it has commanders, it has weapons, it has missiles that can reach well inside Israel – I'm talking the central part of Israel.

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http://www.abc.net.au/am/content/2004/s1069321.htm

Encouraging to see the Israeli / American alliance dealing with Syria.