
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Lebanese Army, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Rodolphe Haykal, paid tribute to the sacrifices of Lebanese soldiers and reaffirmed the central role of the military institution in defending national unity.
In a speech delivered for the occasion, General Haykal praised “80 years of dedication and sacrifice” made by the members of the Lebanese Army.
He emphasized that in a regional context marked by ongoing conflicts, this day holds special significance.
According to him, only a united army, free o afll sectarian or political affiliations and loyal solely to the nation, can embody the hope of salvation for Lebanon.
In light of the “dangerous events” shaking the region, the Army commander-in-chief warned of the numerous interlinked challenges facing Lebanon.
In this context, he denounced Israel’s ongoing violations of international resolutions. He added that terrorism also remains a major threat to national unity and security. These dangers, combined with the direct repercussions of regional crises on Lebanon’s internal scene, require, in his view, collective mobilization and national awareness.
Despite limited resources, the army, he assured, continues to carry out all its missions: reasserting state authority throughout Lebanese territory, implementing international resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), securing land and maritime borders, combating organized crime, and supporting the population through humanitarian and development missions.
General Haykal further stressed the need to strengthen the army’s capabilities to confront these threats. He reaffirmed the military’s willingness to cooperate with “brotherly and friendly countries” to achieve this goal. “The army will not hesitate to thwart any attempt to undermine security or drag the country into conflict,” he stated firmly, assuring that it will remain the guarantor of unity and civil peace.
Addressing the soldiers directly, the general acknowledged the professional and personal challenges they face with courage. He expressed pride and gratitude toward them, affirming that the army’s leadership is working tirelessly to defend their rights and improve their living conditions.
“The strength and stability of the state stem from the strength of the army,” he concluded, calling on political leaders to support the institution and urging soldiers to persevere in their mission, and stand ready to defend the nation in a spirit of loyalty, sacrifice and honor.
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