The Lebanese Army Commander-in-Chief Meets the Turkish Defense Minister and Chief of the Turkish General Staff on the Sidelines of SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aviation, and Space Exhibition in Istanbul

The Lebanese Army Commander-in-Chief, General Rodolph Haykal, met the Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and Chief of the Turkish General Staff General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu on the sidelines of his participation in the SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aviation, and Space Exhibition in Istanbul over the past two days, from May 5 to May 7, 2026.

During his meeting with General Haykal, Minister Güler reaffirmed Turkey’s continued support for the Lebanese Army in confronting challenges and strengthening cooperation between the two sides. He also condemned the ongoing Israeli attacks and strikes targeting various areas across Lebanon.

For his part, General Bayraktaroğlu stressed to General Haykal the importance of enhancing cooperation between the Lebanese and Turkish armies and emphasized support for the military institution in all fields. Discussions also addressed the anticipated steps in the post-UNIFIL phase.

During both meetings, General Haykal expressed his gratitude to the Turkish authorities and the Turkish Army for their continuous support. He also praised the remarkable achievements of the Turkish defense industry.

The exhibition was held with the participation of around 120 countries and 1,700 companies, and attended by high-ranking officials, army commanders, and heads of security agencies from several countries around the world. It featured displays of advanced, high-efficiency technologies.