Outgunned Lebanese army no longer seen as neutral

Hannah Allam in McClatchy's, here

"We've heard complaints from people who wanted law and order established and who wanted the military to step in and do more. We are very aware of that," said Mohamed Chatah, a senior adviser to Saniora. "But I wouldn't characterize what has happened as 'siding with' (the opposition)."

Politicians, analysts and fighters, however, said the army's performance suggests that the better-armed Hezbollah has struck a deal with Lebanese military brass. At the same time, there's bafflement that the army hasn't been able to defend the government despite receiving more than $400 million in U.S. aid since 2006.....

Allegations of complicity with the opposition could jeopardize the Western-backed ruling bloc's endorsement of army commander Gen. Michel Suleiman, a Maronite Christian, for president...."