Gulf nations declare Lebanon's Hezbollah a terrorist group

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – A bloc of six Gulf nations led by Saudi Arabia says it has formally declared Lebanon's Hezbollah a terrorist organization.

A statement from the Gulf Cooperation Council said Wednesday that it was taking the step because of hostile acts by the militant group within its member states.

The group accused Hezbollah of charges including seeking to recruit members within the GCC and smuggling of weapons and explosives.

The GCC includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.