Lebanon has appointed new security chiefs in a bid to diminish Hezbollah’s influence in government. Key appointments include Gen. Rudolph Haykal as army chief and Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair leading general security. President Aoun emphasizes reform and accountability amid ongoing IMF negotiations and security concerns. Amidst these changes, relations with Israel remain tenuous as discussions on border disputes continue.
The Lebanese government has appointed several new security chiefs in a strategic move to reduce Hezbollah’s influence. Notably, Gen. Rudolph Haykal was named as the army chief while Brig. Gen. Hassan Choucair will lead general security. Additionally, Brig. Gen. Raed Abdullah becomes the head of the Internal Security Forces, and Brig. Gen. Edgar Lawandos oversees state security operations. Despite these changes, key positions in the central bank and the judiciary remain unfilled.
President Joseph Aoun chaired the Cabinet meeting and expressed his confidence in the qualifications of the newly appointed officials. He emphasized that these leaders must be accountable for their actions and affirmed that the Cabinet holds the authority to dismiss them if necessary. Aoun underscored the need for comprehensive reforms in Lebanon’s economy and sectors to rebuild trust internally and externally.
In a meeting with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Aoun was informed about the urgent need to finalize a program agreement. The IMF outlined critical requirements including appointing a new central bank governor and modernizing the finance ministry’s data systems, alongside revising banking secrecy laws and restructuring banks.
The security apparatus remains vigilant against developments in Syria, with Aoun highlighting a commitment to maintaining national security. Following their appointments, the new security leaders met with Aoun, signifying their readiness to address security challenges amid Israeli presence and the implementation of Resolution 1701.
Gen. Haykal has previously held significant roles in the Lebanese army, tackling deployment challenges and ensuring operational advancement. Brig. Gen. Choucair has a background in intelligence that enhances his capabilities in counter-terrorism and security coordination. Brig. Gen. Abdullah is recognized for his extensive experience with operational and administrative challenges in Lebanon’s security landscape, while Brig. Gen. Lawandos represents Lebanon in ceasefire enforcement efforts.
An Israeli army action on Thursday saw the release of Lebanese soldier Ziad Chebli, who was injured during an incident before his capture. Minister Aoun noted that the release occurred through indirect negotiations, reflecting ongoing pressures from Lebanon regarding custody disputes.
Additionally, four Lebanese detainees were released from Israeli custody, highlighting the potential impact of Lebanese pressure on ceasefire implementation. Discussions regarding a resolution to the land border disputes are being approached cautiously, with Deputy Premier Tarek Mitri denying intentions to normalize relations with Israel.
Moreover, Lebanon plans to create committees focused on resolving specific points regarding the Israeli occupation and prisoner issues, emphasizing that these efforts aim to adhere to Resolution 1701 without initiating direct negotiations with Israel. Mitri firmly stated that Israel’s actions would not alter Lebanon’s longstanding positions on border disputes.
Overall, the appointment of new security leaders marks a notable shift in Lebanon’s political landscape and reflects a careful approach to managing internal security and diplomatic relations.
The Lebanese government’s recent appointment of new security chiefs signifies a strategic move to curtail Hezbollah’s influence. President Aoun advocates for accountability and necessary reforms to regain public trust. The security leaders are poised to tackle various challenges as Lebanon collaborates with the IMF while remaining vigilant of regional developments. Despite tensions with Israel, the Lebanese Cabinet insists on maintaining its established positions on border disputes, indicating a complex landscape ahead.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
