Syria's embassy here on Wednesday dismissed White House claims that it was involved in a plot with Iran and Hizbullah to oust Lebanon's government as 'ludicrous' and 'unfounded.'
President George W. Bush's spokesman Tony Snow earlier sounded the alarm over what he called "mounting evidence" that Washington's two foes and the militia were "preparing plans to topple" Lebanon's government.
But the Syrian embassy hit back in a statement, accusing the United States of abusing its power and instigating instability in Lebanon.
"In reference to the statements made by the White House press secretary, regarding the ludicrous accusations against Syria, the Embassy of Syria in Washington totally dismisses these unfounded allegations," the statement said.
"It is a shame that the US, the world's super power, is belittling itself to such petty politics.
"What is happening in Lebanon is a purely domestic political issue.
"Syria fully respects the sovereignty of Lebanon and does not interfere in its internal politics.
"Therefore, we call on the US to follow suit and to stop instigating the Lebanese people against each other and against other countries," it said, adding that such statements did not help Lebanon or the Middle East.