Lebanon has appointed a new army chief and heads of security agencies to enhance state authority, particularly in southern regions, following tensions with Israel. These appointments come in the wake of resolving a political deadlock and aim to recruit thousands of soldiers for increased military presence. Recent negotiations led to the release of Lebanese nationals detained by Israeli forces.
On Thursday, Lebanon appointed a new army chief and heads for three key security agencies, a strategic move aimed at bolstering state authority, particularly in the southern regions following recent conflicts involving Hezbollah and Israel. This initiative follows the resolution of a two-year political impasse 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 government’s measures come after a US-brokered ceasefire concluded nearly 14 months of intense fighting between Hezbollah and Israel. The renewed aggression began on October 8, 2023, when rockets were fired into Israel following a Hamas-led incursion, prompting Israel to retaliate with airstrikes, escalating into a full-scale war last September.
In conjunction with the new appointments, President Aoun announced the release of five Lebanese nationals who were detained by Israeli forces during the conflict. These individuals included both soldiers and civilians, and their release followed indirect negotiations, as confirmed by Morgan Ortagus, a deputy special envoy for the Middle East during the Trump administration.
The newly appointed officials include Gen. Rudolph Haikal as the army chief, Brig. Gen. Edgar Lawandos to lead the State Security agency, Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair appointed head of General Security, and Brig. Gen. Raed Abdullah named head of the Internal Security Forces. Furthermore, Lebanon intends to recruit an additional 4,500 soldiers this year to enhance its military presence in the southern region.
Lebanon’s recent appointments of new security leaders signify a strategic attempt to strengthen state control amidst ongoing regional tensions. These decisions follow the election of a new president and the establishment of a government, marking a pivotal moment in Lebanese politics. The release of detainees and military recruitment are additional efforts to reinforce military capabilities and stabilize the country.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
