Rabin, Weinberger Open Military Aid Discussions

Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Rabin opened talks here today on U.S. military aid to his hard-pressed country, with diplomatic sources saying the Reagan Administration will offer Israel $1.8 billion for 1986.

But U.S. officials said American economic assistance, including a request for an immediate $800-million shot in the arm, will be scrutinized before a decision is made on that aid.

Defense Secretary Caspar W. Weinberger joined Rabin at a Pentagon entrance this morning for ceremonies, including a 19-gun salute and an inspection of a U.S. honor guard.

The two then talked for more than two hours about Israel’s efforts to maintain a military edge over its Arab neighbors even while battling high inflation and other economic problems.

Rabin told reporters afterward that President Reagan will make the final decision. “There is no doubt we’ll have an increase over this fiscal year,” the defense minister said. “How much, the President will decide.”

There was no sign of strain between the two governments.

“I believe that Secretary Weinberger understands, and sympathetically tries to do what can be done to assist Israel’s security problems, defense needs, and I find him a friend of Israel,” Rabin said.

Asked if he sought another U.S. diplomatic effort to persuade Syria to withdraw its troops from Lebanon, the Israeli official said, “I don’t believe it is the role of the United States to do so.”

He said Israel’s decision to pull out was taken independently. “If (the Syrians) would like to continue to stay in Lebanon, let them enjoy it. I believe whoever sets his foot in the Lebanese mud sinks there. I don’t mind if they stay there.”