Lebanon has appointed a new army chief and security agency heads to bolster state authority, especially in the south, after conflict with Hezbollah. This follows the recent political resolution with the election of President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Also, five detained Lebanese citizens have been released, signaling progress in negotiations with Israel, as Lebanon prepares to recruit more military personnel.
Lebanon has strengthened its state authority by appointing a new army chief and heads for three key security agencies. These appointments come amid heightened efforts to stabilize the country, particularly in the southern region following the recent conflict involving the militant group Hezbollah and Israel.
The recent appointments succeeded the resolution of a political stalemate in January, which saw the election of President Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, and the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. A ceasefire brokered by the U.S. in late November ended nearly 14 months of fighting, which began with Hezbollah launching rockets into Israel in response to a deadly incursion by Hamas.
In a significant development, five Lebanese citizens detained by Israeli forces during the conflict have been freed following negotiations. Morgan Ortagus, a former U.S. special envoy, confirmed the release and expressed optimism regarding the resolution of territorial disputes between Lebanon and Israel.
The new leaders appointed include General Rudolph Haikal as the army chief, Brigadier General Edgar Lawandos as the head of State Security, Brigadier General Hassan Choucair as the head of General Security, and Brigadier General Raed Abdullah leading the Internal Security Forces. Furthermore, Lebanon plans to recruit 4,500 soldiers this year to enhance military presence in the south.
Lebanon’s recent appointments of military and security leadership aim to reinforce state authority in response to regional tensions. Following a protracted political deadlock, the new leadership is expected to stabilize the country, particularly in its southern regions, amidst ongoing territorial disputes with Israel.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
