Pentagon official says US is committed to supporting Lebanon’s army despite freeze in aid

Pentagon official says US supports Lebanon’s army

BEIRUT — A senior Pentagon official says the Obama administration is “working closely” with members of the U.S. Congress to help restore military aid to Lebanon’s army.

U.S. Defense Undersecretary Michele Flournoy said Wednesday during a trip to Lebanon that the United States is committed to supporting the country’s military.

In August, several U.S. lawmakers froze $100 million in military aid to Lebanon after expressing concerns the weapons could be turned on Israel and that Hezbollah may have influence over the Lebanese army.

But the Obama administration has made clear it wants the military aid to continue in the interest of America’s national security and Mideast stability.