BEIRUT, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health expressed "great surprise" on Sunday following Kuwait's announcement that it had added eight Lebanese hospitals to its national terrorism sanctions list.
In a statement, the ministry said it received no advance notice from Kuwaiti authorities, adding that this action contradicts Kuwait's longstanding fraternal and diplomatic stance toward Lebanon.
The eight hospitals are situated in southern Lebanon, eastern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs, areas reportedly known for strong Hezbollah influence.
Kuwaiti daily Al-Rai reported that Kuwait's committee for enforcing UN anti-terror resolutions made the decision based on "reasonable grounds" linking the facilities to terrorist activities.
The Lebanese ministry responded that these hospitals provide medical services to all Lebanese citizens without discrimination, and remain a vital part of the national healthcare system, adding that it will seek clarification from Kuwaiti authorities to prevent misunderstandings and safeguard its healthcare institutions.
Earlier this month, the ministry condemned threats against hospitals in southern Lebanon, following reports that the Israeli military dropped leaflets warning that Hezbollah is using a hospital in the city of Bint Jbeil. ■
