- The Washington Times - Friday, August 29, 2014

A cache of emergency weapons — including M16-A4 assault rifles and anti-tank missiles — was delivered Friday to Lebanon from the United States at Lebanon’s request.

“This is just the latest in a series of deliveries that have arrived in the last 36 hours,” said U.S. ambassador David Hale from a Beirut air base, the Associated Press reported.

The ambassador added that the U.S. has already provided the Lebanese army with 480 anti-tank guided missiles, mortars and over 1,500 M16-A4 rifles.

“This aircraft is full, chock-full!” said Antonio Banchs, defense attache to the U.S. embassy, as he inspected a new shipment of weapons, AP reported.

A recent attack by the Islamic State group into the town of Arsai prompted the weapons request from Lebanon.

• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.

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