U.S. to send more military aid to Lebanon

WASHINGTON, May 22 (UPI) -- The United States plans to send more military equipment to Lebanon to help the army in its fight against a militant Islamist group, it was reported Tuesday.

Citing military and diplomatic sources, CNN said Lebanon requested the additional aid, especially basic items such as helmets, ammunition and armored vests.

Lebanese soldiers have been fighting the group Fatah-al-Islam. The United States has sent $40 million in aid since the end of last year's war between Israel and Hezbollah.

Officials say they hope to keep Lebanon from becoming a haven for al-Qaida and similar terrorist groups.