Lebanon has appointed Brig Gen Rodolphe Haykal as army commander, succeeding Joseph Aoun who became president. The government also filled several security roles with emphasis on expertise. This restructuring occurs amidst political changes and an urgent need for international assistance due to a deepening economic crisis.
The Lebanese government has appointed Brig Gen Rodolphe Haykal as the new army commander to succeed Joseph Aoun, who was elected president in January. Aoun served as army commander from March 2017 until his presidential election, which concluded a prolonged political hiatus in the country.
Additionally, several key security positions were filled following a Cabinet meeting, as announced by Information Minister Paul Morkos. Brig Gen Hassan Shqeir becomes head of General Security, Brig Gen Raed Abdallah assumes leadership of the Internal Security Forces, and Brig Gen Edgard Lawandos is appointed head of State Security.
Mr. Morkos emphasized that these appointments prioritize expertise and competence, asserting, “We are working within the government with great precision while ensuring strict adherence to standards and qualifications.” In conjunction with these appointments, the Cabinet also sanctioned the recruitment of 4,500 soldiers for the army in three stages.
These military and security changes occur against the backdrop of significant political shifts in Lebanon, particularly following the election of President Joseph Aoun, which ended a two-year political deadlock. This change marks a new era amid the declining influence of Iran-backed Hezbollah, which faced substantial losses during its conflict with Israel, affecting its leadership and security structures.
Moreover, the appointment of Nawaf Salam as Prime Minister, a former ambassador to the UN and judge, is viewed as a catalyst for reforming state institutions. Both Aoun and Salam have committed to enacting critical reforms to secure international funding essential for Lebanon’s post-war redevelopment and economic recovery.
As Lebanon grapples with a severe economic crisis heightened by the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, there is an urgent need for both Arab and international support. Recently, Arab nations have re-established ties with Lebanon, moving away from their previous distancing due to Tehran’s influence. Notably, President Aoun’s inaugural foreign visit was to Saudi Arabia, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The appointment of Brig Gen Rodolphe Haykal as army commander alongside key security leaders signifies a significant shift in Lebanon’s governance. These appointments, grounded in a commitment to expertise, emerge amid intense political changes following the election of President Joseph Aoun and the appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. With looming economic challenges, Lebanon requires urgent international aid, highlighting the importance of these new leadership roles for national reform and recovery.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
