Lebanon has appointed new security chiefs, marking a notable shift away from Hezbollah’s influence. Key figures include Gen. Rudolph Haykal as army chief and Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair as head of general security. President Aoun emphasized the need for accountability and the urgency of economic reforms, particularly in the face of IMF recommendations. Additionally, Lebanon is forming committees to address border disputes with Israel without direct negotiations, ensuring its stance on regional issues remains firm.
The Lebanese government has initiated a pivotal shift away from Hezbollah’s influence by appointing new leaders within the security apparatus. These appointments include General Rudolph Haykal as army chief, Brigadier General Hassan Choucair as head of general security, Brigadier General Raed Abdullah as head of Internal Security Forces, and Brigadier General Edgar Lawandos as head of state security.
Despite Hezbollah and the Amal Movement’s suggestion of Brigadier Morshed Suleiman for the general security agency—a position traditionally allocated to the Shiite sect—President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister have appointed him instead as deputy director general of state security. President Aoun expressed his confidence in the qualifications of the appointed leaders, stating that they would be held accountable for their actions and could be dismissed if necessary.
In addressing economic challenges, Aoun noted the importance of regaining confidence in Lebanon to facilitate reforms in various sectors. He reported that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation emphasized the urgent need for a program agreement prior to summer, outlining essential prerequisites, including appointing a new central bank governor and passing critical legislation on banking secrecy and bank restructuring.
As developments unfold, the security sectors remain vigilant concerning escalating circumstances in Syria, particularly along the northern and eastern borders with Lebanon. After their appointments, the new security leaders visited the Presidential Palace to meet with President Aoun, who underscored the military’s readiness amidst Israeli military activities in the region.
General Haykal, with an extensive military background, will address the challenges facing Lebanon’s defenses, including the deployment of the army in southern areas and coordination with UNIFIL to uphold Resolution 1701. Brigadier General Choucair has experience in counterterrorism and intelligence, while Brigadier General Abdullah brings significant operational expertise to his role.
The situation also involved the recent release of Lebanese soldier Ziad Chebli after being captured by Israeli forces. Aoun’s remarks on the hostages released via indirect negotiations highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts. Furthermore, Deputy Premier Tarek Mitri reiterated Lebanon’s steadfast position against normalizing relations with Israel during discussions about disputes along their shared border
To facilitate future resolutions on border disputes, Lebanon plans to establish three working committees focusing on the Israeli occupation, prisoners held by Israel, and boundary disagreements. There remains an assertion that these actions do not imply direct negotiations with Israel, preserving Lebanon’s stance amidst ongoing regional complexities.
The latest developments indicate a strategic maneuvering by the Lebanese government towards establishing greater autonomy from Hezbollah’s influence while aiming for accountability and structural reform in internal security and economic regrowth.
The recent appointments and policy shifts by the Lebanese government signify a deliberate move to diminish Hezbollah’s influence over national security. The focus on accountability and reform is paramount, particularly in the context of economic recovery efforts and negotiations related to border disputes with Israel. The newly appointed security chiefs hold a critical responsibility in navigating the complexities of Lebanon’s security landscape, reaffirming their commitment to the nation’s sovereignty and stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
