Lebanon has appointed new security chiefs, including General Rudolph Haykal, in an effort to reduce Hezbollah’s influence. President Aoun emphasized the importance of accountability among the new appointees and the need for wide-ranging reforms. The government remains focused on addressing both internal security and international negotiations regarding border disputes and economic stabilization.
The Lebanese government has initiated a pivotal transition by appointing new security chiefs, signaling a move away from Hezbollah’s influence. The new appointees include General Rudolph Haykal as army chief, Brigadier General Hassan Choucair as head of general security, Brigadier General Raed Abdullah as head of the Internal Security Forces, and Brigadier General Edgar Lawandos as head of the agency for state security. Despite this progress, key vacancies remain, particularly those of the central bank and in the diplomatic and judicial sectors.
Brigadier General Morshed Suleiman, initially nominated by Hezbollah and the Amal Movement for the general security agency position, was appointed as deputy director general of state security by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who opted for different candidates instead. During a Cabinet meeting, President Aoun affirmed his confidence in the professional backgrounds of the appointed individuals, noting their accountability for their actions, and indicated that the Cabinet could dismiss them if necessary.
Aoun stated that restoring internal and external confidence in Lebanon is essential and requires comprehensive reform in various sectors, including economic and financial. The president also conveyed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation emphasized the urgent need for a program agreement. Key prerequisites outlined by the IMF include the appointment of a new central bank governor and legislative revisions concerning banking secrecy and bank restructuring.
The Lebanese security apparatus continues to monitor the evolving situation along its northern and eastern borders, particularly concerning developments in Syria. Post-appointment, the new security leaders met with President Aoun at the Presidential Palace. General Haykal, previously an operations director in the army, faces challenges such as enhancing military deployment and collaboration with UNIFIL to enforce UN Resolution 1701, while addressing anti-terrorism measures.
Brigadier General Choucair, with experience in the Lebanese Intelligence Directorate, is poised to oversee counterterrorism initiatives. Brigadier General Abdullah, noted for his operational tenure, will contribute significantly to ongoing security challenges, particularly in the context of post-ISIS counterterrorism. Lastly, Brigadier General Lawandos has experience in overseeing ceasefire implementations under Resolution 1701.
Recent developments include the release of Lebanese soldier Ziad Chebli by Israeli forces following his capture, which President Aoun attributed to indirect negotiations. The Lebanese military affirmed receipt of Chebli, while pressure from Lebanese authorities also facilitated the release of four Lebanese detainees from Israel. It is reported that several individuals, including Hezbollah combatants and Syrian workers, remain in Israeli custody.
After the Cabinet’s session, Deputy Premier Tarek Mitri emphasized Lebanon’s refusal to normalize relations with Israel, even as discussions on border disputes continue. A military source disclosed plans for three working committees to address specific issues with Israel, underscoring that these actions aim to implement Resolution 1701 without establishing direct negotiations. Mitri reiterated that while Israel attempts to establish unilateral changes, Lebanon remains steadfast in its position.
The recent appointments of new security chiefs in Lebanon mark a significant shift away from Hezbollah’s influence, indicating a government intent on reform and security enhancement. As Lebanon navigates critical reforms in its financial sector and addresses border disputes, the government’s approach stresses accountability and the continuous monitoring of regional developments. This transitional phase is crucial for restoring public confidence and achieving stability in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
