Spanish defense minister orders troops to prepare for Lebanon mission

A Marine unit was ordered to prepare for deployment to Lebanon to join the UN peacekeeping force, the Spanish Defense Ministry said Tuesday. The number of troops was not immediately disclosed, but

Spain's Socialist government reportedly is considering sending 700-1,000 troops to Lebanon.

The government is expected to approve the deployment at a Cabinet meeting Friday and then must seek Parliament's approval as required for such overseas missions. (AP)