Israel welcomed on Thursday key steps by the U.S. towards imposing sanctions on Syria.
The Republican-led House of Representatives International Relations Committee voted 33-2 Wednesday in favor of diplomatic and economic sanctions, accusing Damascus of supporting "terrorism" and developing weapons of mass destruction.
The White House said it would not oppose the resolution when it comes before the full house.
"It's a positive decision which proves the Americans are aware of the extent of Syrian involvement in terrorism, and in facilitating the passage of terrorists into Iraq to commit anti-American attacks," a senior Israeli official told AFP news agency.
"The United States is going to make Syria suffer the consequences of its refusal to shut down the headquarters of Palestinian terrorist organizations in Damascus, from where the orders originate to launch attacks on Israel," added the official, on condition of anonymity.
"After the American intervention in Iraq, the Syrians also undertook to prevent Hizbollah from carrying out provocative acts on our northern border - which they failed to do," the official added.
Washington should follow "the same tactics as in Afghanistan, making it clear that all countries that support terrorism will pay the price, and that the United States will act with determination to punish them," he further said. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
