Ceremony announcing the clearance of Jouroud Arsal and Ras Baalbek from war remnants, under the patronage of the Army Commander
Under the patronage of the Army Commander in Chief General Joseph Aoun, a ceremony was held in Ras Baalbek to announce the clearance of the Jouroud Arsal and Ras Baalbek from the remnants of war. General Aoun, as well as the US Ambassador Dorothy Shea, the Japanese Ambassador Magoshi Masayuki, the Dutch Ambassador Hans Peter Van Der Woude, and the South Korean Ambassador Park IL attended the ceremony. As well as Governor of Baalbek-Hermel region Bashir Khodor, the Director of Mines Action Group (MAG) Program Mr. Greg Crowther, and the Director of the Lebanese Mine Action Center Colonel Jihad Al Bachaalani, along with representatives from donor countries, international and national organizations involved in mine clearance, as well as military officers, military attachés, and local community representatives.
General Aoun delivered a speech in which he emphasized the Lebanese Army's commitment to delivering the areas of Arsal and Ras Baalbek to their residents free from the remnants of war, following their liberation from terrorist organizations during the Battle of Fajr al-Jourud. He affirmed the army's ongoing efforts to clear the remaining Lebanese territories of mines and explosive remnants of war.
He said: “The support of friend countries, as well as non-governmental organizations with their various capacities, has significantly aided us in accomplishing the mission. This support enabled the Army to initiate the clearing of Jouroud Arsal, Ras Baalbek, and Al Qaa from explosive ordnance following their liberation from the grip of terrorism. This facilitated the establishment of military centers along the border and connecting them through a wide network of roads made available to the region’s residents for easy and safe access to their lands. Here, I renew my gratitude to the friend countries, especially the United States through the 1226 program.”
He added: “Our presence along the border is not without challenges, including the rugged geographical terrain and various resource limitations. However, our military personnel are exerting their utmost efforts to protect it, prevent smuggling operations, and deter illegal migration. They are facing various types of rumors and accusations of negligence, while the daily facts on the ground prove their tremendous efforts. From here, I invite every skeptic to visit the border and witness firsthand the situation that warns of impending challenges. Let us move beyond speculation and baseless accusations and stand behind the army, which has been and will continue to be the safeguard of Lebanon. It will not deviate from its oath and responsibilities.”
The Director of MAG Programs also confirmed the continued cooperation with the Lebanese Army to remove the threat of war remnants from various Lebanese territories. He commended the commitment, bravery, dedication, and professionalism of the army personnel in carrying out their duties.
The Governor of Baalbek-Hermel region also emphasized the importance of this achievement, which was made possible thanks to the efforts of the Lebanese Army, mine clearance organizations, and the support of donor countries. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the residents of the Baalbek-Hermel Governorate to everyone who contributed to the success of the project.
On the other hand, Ambassadors Shea, Masayuki, and Van Der Woude emphasized the continued support of their respective countries during the current challenging phase in Lebanon. They pledged to stand by Lebanon and expressed their support for the Lebanese Army, particularly in the field of liberating land contaminated by mines and war remnants, as well as assisting mine victims in their recovery from injuries. They commended the sacrifices of the military institution in protecting the lives of the Lebanese people from the dangers of mines and enabling them to utilize their lands.
Colonel Jihad Al Bachaalani highlighted the ongoing work carried out by the Lebanese Mine Action Center to liberate contaminated areas from war remnants. He expressed gratitude to donor countries and the center's partners in related programs for their support.
