Lebanon has appointed a new army chief and heads of three security agencies to bolster state authority, especially in the south, following conflict with Hezbollah. These appointments follow the election of President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, resolving a two-year political deadlock. A ceasefire has recently been established, and Lebanon plans to recruit more soldiers to enhance its military presence.
On Thursday, Lebanon appointed a new army chief and heads of three major security agencies in an effort to reinforce state authority, particularly in the southern region, following a devastating conflict precipitated by the militant group Hezbollah. This development comes after a two-year political impasse was resolved in January with the election of President Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, and the establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
The new security appointments 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. This strategic enhancement of leadership is critical as Lebanon works to stabilize its security apparatus post-conflict.
This announcement aligns with the backdrop of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that began in late November, ending nearly 14 months of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. The conflict escalated sharply following Hezbollah’s rocket fire into Israel on October 8, 2023, after a deadly incursion in southern Israel initiated by Hamas in Gaza.
Additionally, it was reported that five Lebanese nationals detained by Israeli troops during the fighting were released through indirect negotiations. Morgan Ortagus, a deputy special envoy for the Middle East during the Trump administration, confirmed the release and expressed optimism about resolving ongoing territorial disputes between Lebanon and Israel.
To bolster its military presence, Lebanon plans to recruit 4,500 soldiers this year, aimed at enhancing stability and security in the southern region amidst ongoing tensions.
In conclusion, Lebanon’s recent appointments of key military and security leaders signify a concerted effort to strengthen state authority in light of the recent conflicts with Israel and Hezbollah. With a new government in place and ongoing negotiations contributing to regional stability, Lebanon is taking definitive steps to enhance its military capacity and address security challenges. The recruitment of additional soldiers further underscores the commitment to maintaining control and security, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Original Source: apnews.com
