Meeting of the Army Commander-in-Chief with the Command Staff and the Commanders of Operational Units and Regiments

Saturday, 20 June 2026

Army Commander-in-Chief: “The strength of the institution lies in the soldiers’ belief in their mission... and civil peace is a red line.”

Army Commander General Rodolph Haykal held a meeting in Yarzeh, attended by members of the Command Staff, commanders of operational units and regiments, and a number of officers. The meeting was dedicated to reviewing the current developments in Lebanon and the region, as well as monitoring the security and military situation amid the continuing Israeli attacks and the challenges associated with the current phase.

General Haykal opened the meeting with a minute of silence in honor of the fallen members of the military institution, emphasizing that their sacrifices will remain a source of pride and honor for both the institution and the nation.

He stressed that the military command holds its martyrs and wounded personnel in the highest regard and is committed to preserving their legacy. He noted that during his visits to their families, he witnessed their pride in the sacrifices of their loved ones despite their profound grief, as well as their unwavering trust in the Army and belief in its national role.

He then paid tribute to the servicemen and servicewomen who continue to carry out their duties across various regions, particularly in southern Lebanon despite the dangers and challenges. He affirmed that their dedication and discipline embody the enduring values of the military institution.

He said: “During my visit yesterday to the Command of the South Litani Sector in Tyre and to the Second Intervention Regiment in Zahrani, I drew morale and inspiration from the soldiers and felt their pride in their mission.”

The meeting also addressed the latest security and regional developments and their implications for Lebanon. He emphasized that preserving security and stability remains a constant national priority and serves to thwart Israeli objectives aimed at undermining internal security. He affirmed that the military institution will continue to carry out its duties with determination and responsibility in order to prevent any threat to civil peace.

Regarding the northern and eastern borders, General Haykal stated that relations with the Syrian authorities remain positive and are marked by continuous coordination. He noted that the military units tasked with securing and monitoring the borders are carrying out their missions effectively and with full professionalism. He further underscored the importance of preserving the confidence of the Lebanese people in the Army, while reinforcing the institution’s unity, cohesion, and credibility. He stressed that any attempts to undermine the Army’s role or cast doubt on its mission will neither weaken the resolve of its personnel nor diminish their steadfast commitment to carrying out their duties. He also rejected any sectarian or political exploitation of the Army’s position regarding detainees and the judicial rulings issued against them. The meeting further addressed the Army Commander’s official visits abroad. General Haykal called for avoiding speculation about these trips, noting that they are planned well in advance and are intended to strengthen cooperation with the armed forces of brotherly and friend countries, thereby enhancing the Army’s capabilities and enabling it to continue carrying out its national missions under all circumstances. On another matter, the Commander emphasized that Army delegations assigned to negotiations and other official duties are not defined by sectarian affiliation. He stressed that the Army’s only identity is its military uniform and its loyalty to the nation. In closing, General Haykal commended the performance of the officers and servicemen, urging them to maintain the highest levels of readiness, professionalism, and discipline. He affirmed that the success of the military institution rests on the sacrifices, dedication, and unwavering commitment of its personnel to serving Lebanon and protecting its people.