Region | Lebanon

Bush pledges support to Lebanese army ahead of visit

US President George W. Bush said he would consult with allies in the Middle East during his forthcoming visit on ways to bolster Lebanon after Hezbollah militants routed US-backed government forces.

  • Agencies
  • Published: 08:22 May 13, 2008
  • Gulf News

  • Days of clashes have erupted in Lebanon between pro-government gunmen and fighters loyal to Hezbollah.
  • Image Credit: Gulf News Archive

Washington: US President George W. Bush said he would consult with allies in the Middle East during his forthcoming visit on ways to bolster Lebanon after Hezbollah militants routed US-backed government forces.

Bush heads back to the Middle East on Tuesday on his second trip to the region this year. He is due in Israel on Wednesday and will also visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

He said the United States would continue to aid the Lebanese military so it can defend the government. Hezbollah seized areas of Beirut last week after the US-backed government tried to pare back its power.

In a statement on Monday, Bush said "it is critical that the international community come together to assist the Lebanese people in their hour of need."

Bush plans to meet Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora on Sunday.

Lebanon's army said it would use force if necessary to stop the violence which has killed 81 and wounded about 250. The United States has blamed Iran and Syria for fomenting the clashes in Lebanon.

"I plan to consult with regional leaders on my upcoming trip to the Middle East to coordinate efforts to support the Lebanese government and implement UN Security Council resolutions ... which seek to bolster Lebanon's sovereignty against external efforts at destabilisation and interference," Bush said.

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