Officials said the Bush administration has sent a series of messages that the Lebanese Army would receive additional U.S.-origin weapons and platforms. They said the administration was encouraged by the army's victory over Fatah Al Islam in northern Lebanon.

"Our partnership includes the commitment of the United States to provide the LAF with the supplies they need to battle — and conquer — the armed extremists in the North," U.S. ambassador to Beirut, Jeffrey Feltman, said.

U.S. Central Command chief, Adm. William Fallon, said Lebanon would soon receive additional military equipment. In late August, Fallon held talks with Lebanese military and political leaders to discuss Beirut's requirements.

"As for the future, I would like to offer my services and the services of my command to work with you to complete issues that you consider beneficial to build the Lebanese Army to become an institution that could even be more beneficial than now for this country," Fallon said.

Lebanon has complained of the slow pace of U.S. deliveries as well as the type of weapons sent. Lebanese Army Chief of Staff Gen. Michel Suleiman and Defense Minister Michel Murr said Beirut requires new platforms rather than munitions.

"Arming and equipping the LAF is of great importance for the defense of Lebanon's sovereignty and for the continuation of the war on terrorism that does not only threaten Lebanon, but the countries of the region and the world," Murr said. "It is in the best interest of friendly nations to cooperate with and support the LAF to combat this dangerous phenomenon."

But U.S. officials cited the war in Iraq as well as force protection issues for the delay in weapons deliveries to Lebanon. They said both Washington as well as European allies have refrained from supplying the Lebanese Army with major weapons platforms, particularly combat helicopters, out of concern that they would come under the control of the Iranian-sponsored Hizbullah.