Lebanese Army Commander: Ready to Deploy in Israeli Withdrawal Areas
Lebanese Army Commander General Rodolphe Heikel affirmed the army’s readiness to deploy in all occupied areas from which Israeli occupation forces withdraw, noting that the occupation persists in attacks and continuous breaches to hinder the army’s efforts.
Heikel’s stance came in his “Order of the Day,” issued on the occasion of the Army’s 81st anniversary. He stated: “Soldiers, the challenges and dangers facing our homeland are increasing. The Army remains committed to carrying out all its missions despite significant difficulties arising from limited capabilities, the magnitude of the tasks, and the precision of the circumstances. These missions range from securing the northern and eastern borders, monitoring maritime borders and territorial waters, to combating terrorism, organized crime, and drug trafficking, as well as preventing smuggling. This is taking place while the Army completes its deployment in the south in accordance with existing understandings, in line with national requirements and constants, and continues its efforts to ensure the safe and secure return of our people to their villages and towns. The Army is also prepared to deploy in all occupied areas from which Israeli occupation forces withdraw, although the occupation persists in attacks and continuous breaches to impede the army’s efforts.”
He added: “The scale of these missions necessitates strengthening the military institution’s capabilities and enabling it to confront challenges, while leveraging cooperation with sister and friendly countries. Indeed, supporting the army is an investment in Lebanon’s stability and regional security. While awaiting the fulfillment of support pledges commensurate with the required missions and the scale of responsibilities, soldiers are redoubling their efforts to overcome these difficulties and fulfill their duty, driven by conviction in their mission. We will strive to develop our own capabilities, which we have begun working on, with the aim of achieving the highest possible level of self-sufficiency.”
