The Lebanese government has appointed Brig Gen Rodolphe Haykal as army commander following Joseph Aoun’s presidential election. Additional security leadership roles have also changed with the appointments of Brig Gen Hassan Shqeir, Brig Gen Raed Abdallah, and Brig Gen Edgard Lawandos. Amid political turmoil and an economic crisis, Lebanon is undergoing significant reforms aimed at attracting international aid.
On Thursday, the Lebanese government appointed Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal as the new army commander, succeeding Joseph Aoun, who was elected president in January after serving as army commander since March 2017. This appointment signifies a resolution to a prolonged political vacuum in Lebanon.
Alongside Brig Gen Haykal, the Cabinet confirmed several key security appointments. Brig Gen Hassan Shqeir will now head General Security, Brig Gen Raed Abdallah will lead the Internal Security Forces, and Brig Gen Edgard Lawandos will oversee State Security. Information Minister Paul Morkos noted that these appointments were made based on expertise and integrity, emphasizing the government’s commitment to upholding standards.
These military and security appointments coincided with pivotal political changes in Lebanon. President Aoun’s election ended a two-year political stalemate despite opposition from Iran-backed Hezbollah, which traditionally influenced Lebanon’s political dynamics. Following setbacks from its ongoing conflict with Israel, Hezbollah has experienced significant challenges that have altered its power structure.
Additionally, the appointment of Nawaf Salam, a judge and former ambassador to the UN, as Prime Minister represents a critical move towards reforming state institutions. Together, Aoun and Salam have publicly committed to undertaking vital reforms necessary to attract international aid for Lebanon’s post-war recovery and economic revitalization.
Lebanon continues to grapple with an acute economic crisis worsened by its conflict with Hezbollah. Nonetheless, Arab nations have begun to re-engage with Lebanon, diverging from previous reluctance influenced by Iran. President Aoun’s inaugural foreign visit to Saudi Arabia underscored this shift and his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reflects potential easing of regional tensions.
The recent appointments of military and security chiefs in Lebanon mark a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape following the election of President Joseph Aoun. These changes, aimed at enhancing governance, come amid a critical juncture for Lebanon, as it seeks to address its enduring economic crisis and foreign relations, especially with Arab nations. The commitments from both President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to implement necessary reforms highlight the urgency of stabilizing Lebanon and facilitating international support.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
