Lebanon has appointed a new army chief and heads of three security agencies to strengthen state authority, especially in the south, following the conflict with Hezbollah and Israel. These decisions follow the election of President Joseph Aoun and the establishment of a new government. Additionally, 4,500 soldiers will be recruited to enhance military presence in southern Lebanon.
Lebanon has undertaken crucial appointments by designating a new army chief and the heads of three key security agencies. This strategic move aims to bolster state authority, particularly in the southern region of the country, amid the aftermath of the recent conflict involving the militant group Hezbollah and Israel. The appointments signify an effort to reinforce national security following destabilizing events.
These appointments follow a significant political shift in January, which saw Lebanese factions overcome a protracted two-year deadlock, leading to the election of President Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, and the establishment of a new government under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. This development has been pivotal in renewing governance and stability within the nation.
The backdrop includes a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that commenced in late November, halting 14 months of intense conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. The fighting reignited on October 8, 2023, triggered by a Hamas-led incursion, leading to aggressive military responses from both parties that escalated into a comprehensive war.
In the announcement of these new military appointments, President Aoun noted the release of five Lebanese nationals who had been held by Israeli troops during the fighting, following indirect negotiations. Morgan Ortagus, the deputy special envoy for the Middle East during the Trump administration, confirmed that the released individuals included a mixture of soldiers and civilians, expressing optimism about resolving territorial disputes between Lebanon and Israel.
The newly appointed leaders include General Rudolph Haikal as army chief, Brigadier General Edgar Lawandos as head of the State Security agency, Brigadier General Hassan Choucair as head of General Security, and Brigadier General Raed Abdullah as head of the Internal Security Forces. Furthermore, Lebanon plans to recruit 4,500 additional soldiers this year to reinforce its military presence in the southern region.
The recent appointments in Lebanon’s military and security infrastructure reflect a decisive move by the government to enhance state authority, particularly in light of the recent conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel. With political stability being reinforced through the recent leadership elections, these measures aim to ensure a more secure environment and address ongoing territorial concerns. The anticipated recruitment of additional soldiers further demonstrates Lebanon’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
