Officials: US reconsidering its aid to Lebanon

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

The Obama administration is reconsidering U.S. economic and military support for Lebanon after the militant Iranian-backed group Hezbollah won a prominent role in the government of the fragile Mideast state where the U.S. has spent millions promoting a pro-Western agenda.

The administration has begun a broad review of political, economic and military assistance to Lebanon in light of the collapse of a U.S.-backed government two weeks ago, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The Obama administration will probably cut or realign that aid if Hezbollah takes over key ministries under a new prime minister, Najib Mikati, who has the backing of Hezbollah, they said.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the review is in its preliminary stages and won’t be complete until after Lebanon forms a new coalition government.