Thursday, October 27, 1983

Military Action:

Fighting continues in southern Beirut suburbs and in Chouf between LAF and Amal and PSP militias; IDF convoy attacked in South Lebanon.

Casualties:

18 wounded in fighting between LAF and militias; deaths from Sunday's bombings now reported to be US, 225, French, 56.

Political Responses:

Palestinians/ Lebanese: Leader of Islamic Amal movement denies any direct or indirect role in Beirut bombings, calls them retribution and a blow for Lebanese dignity and independence; Jumblatt orders release of 1000 civilians under siege in Deir al-Qamar.

US and Other Countries: Foreign ministers of MNF countries meet in Paris, agree to maintain forces in Beirut, Shultz raises possibility of US retaliation for bombing, other states reportedly reluctant; Reagan says those who directed the atrocity must be dealt justice, asks whether the US or the Free World can stand by and see the Middle East incorporated into the Soviet Bloc.