General Haykal’s Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Lebanese Army Commander-in-Chief General Rodolph Haykal visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 8 and 9 February 2026, following an official invitation from the Chief of the General Staff of the Saudi Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Fayyad Bin Hamed Al Ruwaili, to attend the World Defense Show, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saoud. The Army Commander-in-Chief reviewed the latest technologies in the field of defense and security industries.

During the visit, General Haykal met with his Saudi counterpart, and discussions were held on ways to enhance cooperation between the Lebanese and Saudi armies in light of the current challenges and developments in the region, as well as preparations related to the conference to support the Lebanese Army.

Both sides also stressed the need to support the military institution on all levels, given its role in preserving Lebanon’s security and stability and extending the authority of the state across the entire territory, alongside combating terrorism and working to prevent smuggling and drug trafficking.

On the other hand, General Haykal expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom for standing by the Lebanese Army and Lebanon amid the current difficulties.

The Army Commander-in-Chief also visited the Lebanese Embassy in the Kingdom, where he was received by Lebanese Ambassador Ali Qaranouh, who hosted a dinner in his honor, praising the role of the military institution in ensuring the nation’s security. He also met with members of the Lebanese community and expressed his appreciation for the essential role expatriates play in supporting Lebanon.