Armed Arab infiltrators from the Gaza area continued to enter Lebanon by sea in the last few days despite the presence of United Nations observers, it was learned here today, while Secretary of State John Foster Dulles announced at a press conference that the United States might dispatch troops into Lebanon if developments demand it.
Mr. Dulles said the United States was prepared to contribute troops to a United Nations force but might also act on its own in certain exigencies. It was reported here today that the Government of Lebanon has formally requested a force of several thousand men from the United Nations to seal off its frontiers from continuing infiltration of men and arms.
Mr. Dulles said that the United States would support such action in Lebanon as the UN Secretary General might propose. If a call is made for the United States to participate militarily, Mr. Dulles thought the United States would be inclined to do so. He revealed that the U.S. Sixth Fleet was watching the Lebanese situation and possesses elements which could respond. He saw possible contingencies outside the UN framework under which the United States might take armed action in Lebanon.
(A report from Beirut said that eight U.S. Air Force cargo planes flew ammunition into Lebanon today as new fighting broke out. Cairo reports alleged that U.S. tanks and armored cars, accompanied by U.S. military personnel, were landed by ship in Lebanon.)
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