The Lebanese government has appointed new security chiefs, reducing Hezbollah’s influence. Key figures include Gen. Rudolph Haykal and Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair. Despite these appointments, vacancies remain in vital national sectors. President Aoun highlighted the importance of reforms and international cooperation, particularly with the IMF, to stabilize Lebanon’s economy and regain confidence. Recent developments also include negotiations regarding detainees and ongoing discussions about border disputes with Israel, while reaffirming Lebanon’s position against normalization with the country.
The Lebanese government has initiated a significant shift away from Hezbollah’s influence through the appointment of new security chiefs. Despite this change, key positions in the central bank and other sectors remain vacant. The newly appointed officials include Gen. Rudolph Haykal as army chief, Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair as head of general security, Brig. Gen. Raed Abdullah as head of Internal Security Forces, and Brig. Gen. Edgar Lawandos as head of state security. Their appointments reflect a move towards greater independence from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, whose candidate was rejected for the head of general security.
President Joseph Aoun, who presided over the Cabinet meeting, expressed confidence in the newly appointed chiefs and emphasized their accountability. He remarked that restoring both internal and external confidence in Lebanon is paramount and requires comprehensive reforms in various sectors, particularly the economy and banking. The president also highlighted the necessity of addressing urgent prerequisites set forth by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to finalize a program agreement.
During the Cabinet meeting, President Aoun indicated the need for a new central bank governor, a centralized financial data system, and essential legislative changes regarding banking secrecy and bank restructuring. He assured Ministers that Lebanon’s security apparatus would remain vigilant in response to developments in Syria along the nation’s borders. Immediately after their appointments, the new security leaders visited the Presidential Palace for discussions with Aoun.
Gen. Haykal brings substantial operational experience to his new role, prepared to address ongoing challenges, including military deployment in southern territories and enhancing collaboration with UNIFIL to adhere to Resolution 1701. Brig. Gen. Choucair, with a background in the Lebanese Intelligence Directorate, will oversee crucial counterterrorism and security coordination, while Brig. Gen. Abdullah possesses considerable expertise in operational roles within the Internal Security Forces. Brig. Gen. Lawandos has experience with ceasefire oversight and implementing international resolutions.
In recent developments, the Israeli army released Lebanese soldier Ziad Chebli following indirect negotiations, a process that Aoun characterized as significant. The Lebanese army confirmed its receipt of Chebli and his subsequent hospitalization. Meanwhile, additional detainees held by Israel have been released amidst ongoing pressure regarding the ceasefire monitoring committee.
Discussions regarding normalization with Israel were rebuffed by Deputy Premier Tarek Mitri, who emphasized Lebanon’s firm stance amidst negotiations on border disputes. Military sources indicated that three working committees will be established to address specific issues, including territorial occupation and prisoner affairs, while maintaining a clear distinction from direct negotiations with Israel. This reflects Lebanon’s commitment to uphold its stance in the face of external pressures.
In summary, Lebanon’s recent appointment of new security chiefs marks a significant departure from Hezbollah’s influence, reflecting a collective effort to restore confidence in various sectors. The appointments highlight the importance of accountability and the necessity for reforms as emphasized by President Joseph Aoun. The ongoing negotiations related to border disputes and the recent release of detainees showcase Lebanon’s proactive approach, yet emphasize the nation’s unwavering stance against normalization with Israel. The implications of these developments may shape Lebanon’s internal and external relations significantly moving forward.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
