Lebanese Army Chief: Israeli Presence is Lebanon's Primary Threat
Translated & summarized from Alarab by baba
The Commander of the Lebanese Army, Hekal, stated that the continued Israeli presence in Lebanon is the primary threat to the country and vowed to prevent any attempts to destabilize national security. He made these remarks during a meeting discussing regional security and ongoing Israeli violations in southern Lebanon. Hekal emphasized the army's role in defending sovereignty and maintaining stability, while also acknowledging UNIFIL's importance in documenting Israeli breaches. The army is working to improve its capabilities and support its personnel despite relying on its own resources.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Lebanese Army Commander Hekal declared the Israeli presence Lebanon's primary threat and vowed to prevent destabilization.
- Hekal stated the military institution will not permit any attempts to destabilize Lebanon's security and stability.
- The army commander addressed ongoing Israeli attacks and violations in southern Lebanon during a command meeting.
- He emphasized the Lebanese Army's commitment to protecting internal unity, stability, and national sovereignty.
- Hekal highlighted the importance of UNIFIL's continued presence and role in documenting Israeli violations.
- The Lebanese Army is relying on its own capabilities to develop operational and logistical capacities.
The Commander of the Lebanese Army stated on Friday that the military institution will not permit any attempts to destabilize Lebanon's security and stability. He identified the continued Israeli presence on Lebanese territory as the fundamental problem and the greatest danger facing the country. These remarks were made during a meeting with command staff, unit leaders, operational regiments, and several officers to discuss developments in Lebanon and the region, as well as review the security and military situation and current challenges. The meeting addressed ongoing Israeli attacks and violations in southern Lebanon, which have resulted in casualties, damage, and destruction, alongside breaches of international law and existing understandings. Hekal emphasized the Lebanese Army's commitment to its national mission of protecting internal unity, stability, civil peace, defending national sovereignty, and extending state authority over all its territory. He reiterated the necessity of Israeli forces withdrawing from occupied Lebanese lands, deeming their continued presence the primary threat to Lebanon. Responding to criticism of the military, Hekal noted that some internal and external parties criticize the army's performance and attempt to tarnish its image without understanding its work, calling such stances contrary to national affiliation. He highlighted that the army achieves accomplishments beyond its capabilities due to the resilience of its soldiers and their faith in the institution, as well as the trust of the Lebanese people. He affirmed that the army will stand as an impenetrable barrier against any internal unrest and will not allow the country's security and stability to be compromised. The army commander praised the efforts of military units and personnel across various regions, particularly in maintaining internal security, monitoring borders, and countering smuggling operations. He explained that the military institution has relied on its own capabilities during the current phase, working to develop its operational and logistical capacities, which has facilitated several initiatives and achievements, including participation in rehabilitating the airport in Al-Qleiaat. Regarding the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Hekal stressed the importance of its continued presence and mission, noting that it serves as a historical witness to the conflict between Lebanon and Israel and plays a role in monitoring the implementation of international resolutions and documenting Israeli attacks and violations. He considered that UNIFIL's documentation of these violations underscores the necessity of its continued presence and work in Lebanon. In conclusion, he urged military personnel to maintain awareness and responsibility, preserve the highest levels of readiness for all possibilities, and not rely on any regional or international changes. He affirmed that the army command continues its utmost efforts to support military personnel and improve their conditions.
