Rice arrives, people die

Voice of America reports:

Authorities in Lebanon say at least three people have died in clashes between pro- and anti-government groups in the eastern [Bekaa Valley] villages of Saadnayel and Taalbaya.

Officials say four others were wounded in the fighting, which involved heavy guns and rocket-propelled grenades.

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The clashes took place as Condi "birth pang" Rice paid a surprise visit to Lebanon. Death always seems to follow her. According to the AFP:

Rice said she made the trip to "express the United States' support for Lebanese democracy, for Lebanese sovereignty."

Rice first met Sleiman and told him Washington was very supportive of his presidency and his government, describing him as a "very fine man."

She was also meeting Prime Minister Fuad Siniora, parliament speaker and opposition stalwart Nabih Berri and parliamentary majority leader Saad Hariri as well as other members of the ruling bloc.

"We support the democratically elected government of Lebanon, that is what we support," Rice said, brushing aside any suggestion of US interference in Lebanese politics.