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Tuesday May 13, 2008

Bush to consult allies on Lebanon during trip

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President George W. Bush said on Monday he would consult with allies in the Middle East during his upcoming visit on ways to bolster Lebanon after Hezbollah militants routed U.S.-backed government forces.

"It is critical that the international community come together to assist the Lebanese people in their hour of need," Bush said in a statement. He will travel to Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt beginning on Wednesday and plans to meet Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora on Sunday.

U.S. President George W. Bush is seen in Washington November 1, 2007. (REUTERS/Jason Reed)

He also said the United States would continue to aid the Lebanese military so it can defend the government. Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies seized portions of Beirut last week after the U.S.-backed government tried to pare back its power.

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 U.N. Security Council resolutions ... which seek to bolster Lebanon's sovereignty against external efforts at destabilization and interference," Bush said in the statement.

Copyright © 2008 Reuters

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