WASHINGTON - Syria is criticizing the deployment of U.S. warships off the Lebanese coast.

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem told reporters in Damascus Saturday that Washington is trying to derail a potential solution to the political stalemate in Beirut.

Lebanon’s parliament has been deadlocked since November over its inability to elect a new president. Voting was delayed again this week until March 11 - the 15th postponement since the crisis began.

U.S. officials announced the deployment of U.S. warships on Thursday. A Bush administration spokesperson said the ships’ presence is meant as a show of support for stability in the Mediterranean region, and to reflect concern about Lebanon’s political situation.

But Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora said his government had not asked for any naval support. A Hezbollah lawmaker, Hassan Fadlallah, said Friday the warships would be considered a threat against the country.

U.S. officials declined to say whether the naval show of force is meant specifically for Syria, which Washington considers a destabilizing influence in Lebanon and other areas.

One of the naval vessels heading toward Lebanon is the destroyer USS Cole. The Cole was heavily damaged by a terrorist attack more than seven years ago in Yemen, but has since been rebuilt.

Source:  VOA News