Lebanon appointed new military and security leaders to strengthen state authority amidst recent conflicts with Israel. This comes after a political deadlock was resolved with the election of President Joseph Aoun and the formation of a new government. Plans to recruit additional soldiers further highlight efforts to enhance military presence, and five detained Lebanese nationals were released following indirect negotiations.
On Thursday, Lebanon appointed a new army chief and heads of three key security agencies as part of its efforts to consolidate state authority, particularly in the southern region of the country. This decision follows the recent appointment of President Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, and the establishment of a new government under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam after a prolonged political impasse.
The context of these appointments arises from a recent intensification of conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel, which saw a ceasefire brokered by the United States go into effect in late November after 14 months of escalated hostilities. Violence erupted on October 8, 2023, following a fatal incursion by Hamas into southern Israel, leading to reciprocal attacks between the two factions.
In addition to announcing the new military appointments, which include General Rudolph Haikal as army chief and Brigadier Generals Edgar Lawandos, Hassan Choucair, and Raed Abdullah in security roles, President Aoun disclosed that five Lebanese nationals detained by Israeli forces during recent conflicts were safely released through indirect negotiations.
Morgan Ortagus, the former deputy special envoy for the Middle East during the Trump administration, expressed optimism regarding Lebanon’s ability to resolve ongoing territorial issues with Israel. She confirmed to Al Jadeed television that the released Lebanese individuals were a combination of military personnel and civilians.
Moreover, in a bid to strengthen military presence in the south, Lebanon’s government plans to recruit an additional 4,500 soldiers this year to enhance security and state authority in the region.
In conclusion, the recent appointments of military and security officials in Lebanon signify a strategic move by the government to reinforce state authority, particularly against the backdrop of recent conflicts with Israel. Additionally, the government’s recruitment plan aims to bolster military capabilities in the south, while international diplomatic efforts continue to resolve territorial disputes. The release of detained nationals further emphasizes ongoing negotiations for stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
