Reagan defends Lebanon mission amid new remarks on troop withdrawal
President Reagan clarified last week’s warning of withdrawal if Lebanon faced a complete collapse. He said the phrase was hypothetical and cited a possible complete course change as a trigger. He affirmed continued support for the Marines, noted no new U S Israel ties, and described the Middle East as a tinderbox while stressing progress in Beirut and the need for careful assessment of Marine safety. He also commented on El Salvador and social program politics, insisting no targeted attacks on any group and addressing electoral perceptions.