Lebanon's relationship with the United States could grow problematic if Hezbollah takes control of the government, the US State Department said Monday, dpa reported.
State Department spokesman PJ Crowley said the United States will "reserve judgement until a government is formed, but our view of Hezbollah is very well-known."
It would be legally "difficult" for the United States to continue financial assistance to the Lebanese government with Hezbollah, which is listed under US law as a terrorist organization, in power, Crowley said.
"We see it as a terrorist organization, and we'll have great concerns about a government within which a Hezbollah plays a leading role," Crowley said.
"In other words, the larger the role played by Hezbollah in this government, the more problematic our relationship will be," he added.
Hezbollah appeared close to taking power in Lebanon after naming their candidate for prime minister. Hezbollah withdrew from a unity coalition under Prime Minister Saad Hariri two weeks ago, toppling his government.
Hezbollah has backed 55-year-old billionaire Najib Mikati, a Sunni, to replace Hariri, who was still contending to win the post back.