MEETING OF THE ARMY COMMANDER IN CHIEF WITH THE COMMAND’S STAFF AND THE COMMANDERS OF THE MAJOR UNITS AND INDEPENDENT REGIMENTS IN THE PRESENCE OF MILITARY COUNCIL MEMBERS

The Lebanese Army Commander in Chief General Joseph Aoun held a meeting in Yarzeh with the Command’s staff and the commanders of the major units and independent regiments in the presence of military council members during which he discussed recent local and regional developments and the affairs of the Military Institution. He also provided them with the necessary guidance to face the challenges that Lebanon is facing.
 
General Aoun considered that the completion of the maritime borders’ demarcation file will reflect positively on Lebanon in terms of both security and economy and will allow the investment of an essential part of its natural resources. He also stated that the army has fully played its required technical role in this regard, welcoming the political authority’s unanimity to complete this file.
 
He pointed out that the country's entry into the presidential vacancy phase amid political tensions between the parties may be accompanied by attempts to exploit the situation and compromise security, noting that the army is not concerned at all with these interactions, and does not align with any side or party, but is focused essentially on maintaining stability and civil peace. He added: “We shall not allow the exploitation of the situation nor turning our country into an open arena for any security incidents or suspicious movements. The disruption of security is prohibited, because it is one of the fundamental constants of the army and shall remain so.” General Aoun called on the stakeholders to act responsibly to preserve the public interest and called on the Lebanese to be conscious and refuse to be exploited and dragged behind suspicious titles and slogans, as the nation is in need of all its sons. “The security situation is under control, and the protection of Lebanon is our responsibility. We never allowed any violation of security and stability before, nor will we allow it today”.
 
He then addressed the soldiers: “Thanks to you, the army is still cohesive, and Lebanon is still resilient. Many have questioned the institution's ability to get through this phase, leveled false accusations and criticisms and bet on its downfall and on losing the love of the Lebanese by exploiting some issues and events. You faced these accusations with your perseverance, determination, and morale, and you proved with your performance and professionalism that you are up to the responsibility, and worthy of local and international trust. This was demonstrated by the battle of the dawn of the Jurds that you fought and won as heroes thanks to your sacrifices and the blood of the martyrs and wounded; by the events of October 17, 2019, during which you saved and protected Lebanon; during the spread of the Corona pandemic, the economic crisis, the explosion of Beirut’s port, the events of Tayouneh, and successfully monitoring the parliamentary elections, as well as protecting the borders and dealing with the Israeli enemy and terrorism. You have proven that our army is professional with values, respects human rights and protects institutions. All that makes me proud to be the Commander of this army."
He also addressed the doubters, accusers, and instigators by saying: "The Military Institution is steadfast and cohesive and shall continue to carry out its missions to preserve Lebanon and protect its people, security and stability."
 
The Army Commander expressed that the assistance of friendly and brotherly countries is a strong support factor to the army at this stage, the latest of which is the welcome Qatari donation from His Highness the Emir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, pointing out that work is underway to secure other aid and has reached advanced stages.