AP source: Administration says aid to Lebanese military important for US, Mideast security

AP source: Renewed Lebanese military aid sought

WASHINGTON — The Obama administration wants lawmakers to restore millions of dollars in U.S. military aid to Lebanon’s army that they suspended over concerns it could be used to target Israel.

A senior U.S. official told The Associated Press on Thursday that a review concluded that resumption of the aid was in the interest of America’s national security and Mideast stability. Lawmakers had asked for the review after freezing $100 million in aid to the Lebanese Armed Forces last month.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the administration has not yet completed briefing members of Congress who held up the money. Several powerful lawmakers placed holds on the money over concerns it could affect Israel’s security due to fears the militant Hezbollah movement has influence in Lebanon’s army.