Lebanon appointed a new army chief and heads of three security agencies to strengthen state authority, particularly in southern regions, following severe conflicts with Hezbollah. This move aligns with a recent political resolution and a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The new appointees aim to enhance military presence and address regional security challenges.
Lebanon has recently appointed a new army chief and leaders for three security agencies in a bid to strengthen state authority, particularly in the southern areas of the country. This move follows the devastating conflicts with Hezbollah amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions after a two-year political deadlock which concluded with the election of President Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, and the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
The appointments come in the context of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, which took effect in late November after nearly 14 months of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel. The conflict escalated following a Hamas-led incursion into southern Israel on October 8, 2023, leading to retaliatory actions from Israel that further exacerbated tensions and resulted in a full-scale war.
In conjunction with the announcements, President Aoun revealed that five Lebanese nationals, who had been detained by Israeli forces during the conflict, were released following indirect negotiations. Morgan Ortagus, the former deputy special envoy for the Middle East, expressed confidence in resolving territorial disputes between Lebanon and Israel.
The newly appointed officials comprise General Rudolph Haikal as the 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. Additionally, Lebanon plans to recruit 4,500 soldiers this year to enhance its military presence in the southern region.
In summary, Lebanon’s strategic appointments of military and security leaders signify a crucial effort to consolidate state authority, particularly in response to recent conflicts with Hezbollah. The ceasefire and the release of detained nationals highlight diplomatic efforts to address ongoing tensions with Israel. These developments may potentially pave the way for improved stability and security in Lebanon’s southern regions.
Original Source: apnews.com
