France pledges more troops for Lebanon

France said yesterday it was ready to send an extra 1,600 troops to bolster a revamped United Nations force for Lebanon, bringing the total French contingent to 2,000 and making it easier to recruit other nations.

France initially offered only to double its force in Lebanon to 400, disappointing many United Nations' diplomats who had expected Paris to provide the backbone of the mission.

However, President Jacques Chirac said France decided to dispatch many more troops after winning assurances from the UN that the troops would be able to defend themselves fully if they came under attack and could use force to protect civilians.

"Two thousand French troops will thus be placed under the United Nations in Lebanon. France is ready, if the United Nations wishes, to continue commanding this force," Mr Chirac said in a televised address.

Italy, which had promised 2,000 to 3,000 troops, earlier said it had won US blessing for its leadership of the force and that it was confident Europe, especially France, would firm up its so far limited military commitment.

Prime Minister Romano Prodi said President George W. Bush had told him by telephone of his "positive" view of Italy's offer to lead the force. He added that Mr Bush was also leaning on allies to offer troops.

"I expect that reluctant or not, smiling or not, there will be an ample European contribution," Mr Prodi said in an interview with Rai state radio.