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Friday, May 22, 2009

U.S. still helping upgrade Lebanon's military
as Hizbullah's clout increases

NICOSIA — The United States still seeks to improve the operations of the Lebanese military despite concerns of growing Hizbullah influence on the Beirut government.   

Officials said the Defense Department plans to enhance the operations of the Lebanese Army and is focusing on stand-off weapons as well as commando operations.

Officials said the administration of President Barack Obama has slowed U.S. military deliveries to Lebanon in 2009. They said Congress and the administration were concerned over the increasing influence of the Iranian-sponsored Hizbullah over the government of Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora.

Hizbullah was expected to win Lebanese parliamentary elections scheduled for June 7, Middle East Newsline reported.

Also In This Edition

On May 19, a U.S. military delegation arrived in Beirut to discuss cooperation with the Lebanese military. The eight-member delegation, headed by U.S. Special Operations Command chief Adm. Eric Olson, met Lebanese Defense Minister Elias Murr.

"The discussions were meant to review programs to bolster the Lebanese Army and facilitate weapons deliveries over the next few months," an official said.

Washington has pledged to deliver M-60 main battle tanks and Raven unmanned aerial vehicles to the Lebanese Army. Officials said the Pentagon has also sought to accelerate training of Lebanese military and security officers.

On May 22, U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden was scheduled to arrive in Beirut to attend an announcement of new military assistance to the Lebanese Army. Biden was scheduled to meet Lebanese President Michel Suleiman and Prime Minister Fuad Siniora.

"In addition, he will join Lebanese Defense Minister Elias Murr in making an announcement of military assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces," the White House said on May 21.



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