US says Lebanon justified in attacks on camp

WASHINGTON, May 21 (Reuters) Lebanese security forces are justified in their attacks on Islamist militants in a Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon, the US State Department said today.

''It would appear that the Lebanese security forces are working in a legitimate manner to provide a secure, stable environment for the Lebanese people in the wake of provocations and attacks by violent extremists,'' said State Department spokesman Sean McCormack.

At least 70 people have been killed in two days of fighting and Lebanese tanks continued to shell militants in the refugee camp near Tripoli in northern Lebanon today.

McCormack said the militants, who come from the Fatah al-Islam group, were committed to violence and the use of terror. ''The Lebanese security forces are rightfully acting to enforce law and order in Lebanon,'' he said.

Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora was an ''effective, strong'' leader, McCormack said.

''We have every confidence that he will act in the best interests of the Lebanese people dealing with these various challenges,'' he said.

Reuters AM DB2131