Lebanese Army asserts authority in east Beirut

The Lebanese Army sent troops and armor into mainly Christian east Beirut in a new move to establish a presence in the right-wing Christian militias' base of operation.

Units from the three-nation Lebanon peace force, including the US Marines, were due to begin patrols later in the day Wednesday to reinforce the Army's position. A spokesman for the Christian forces said the militias welcomed the Army's move.

The Army will reportedly be allowed to confiscate any weapons found, except for those carried by guards at the numerous party offices, barracks, and military-police posts in the area. Raiding homes or party offices was forbidden.