Admiral Heikal Discusses Challenges Facing the Army with Congressional Delegation

Army Commander Major General Rudolf Heikal discussed with U.S. Congress members Darin LaHood and Josh Gottheimer, along with their accompanying delegation, the latest developments in Lebanon and the region, exploring ways to overcome the difficulties and challenges faced by the army in carrying out its assigned missions. The discussion also covered the operations conducted by the army across Lebanese territory.

The meeting took place during Major General Heikal’s reception of the delegation at his office in Yarze. LaHood praised the military’s sacrifices, emphasizing “the importance of the army’s role in maintaining security and stability in the country.”

For his part, MP Fouad Makhzoumi, during a reception honoring U.S. Congress members Darin LaHood and Josh Gottheimer, attended by several MPs, stated that “Lebanon’s recovery begins with restoring the state’s authority over its entire territory, including the exclusive state authority over decisions of war and peace.”

He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration for their commitment to peace in the region, stressing the necessity of “translating the three-party framework agreement into practical steps that include expanding the authority of the Lebanese army, disarming Hezbollah and all other militias, and achieving a full Israeli withdrawal in parallel, with a reliable verification mechanism to ensure civilian protection.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam returned to Beirut and held phone calls with President of the Republic Major General Joseph Aoun and Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri, briefing them on the latest developments from his visit to New York and Washington.