Lebanon, US set up joint military commission

By ZEINA KARAM BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) -- The United States and Lebanon on Monday set up a joint military commission to bolster military cooperation _ a move that follows the first visit by the newly elected Lebanese president to Washington. The development comes against the backdrop of a Syrian troop buildup along Lebanon's northern border and follows bombings blamed on Islamic militants in the two neighboring Mideast countries. The United States is a backer of Lebanon's army and has pledged more help since President Michel Suleiman's September meeting with President Bush. At the time, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates was quoted as saying the Lebanese army was given nearly $400 million in military assistance. A further $60 million worth of aid, including helicopters, ammunition and Humvees, is awaiting Congress' approval. A... [read full story]