Heikal: We await the end of the occupation... and the army will deploy across every inch of Lebanese territory

During a field tour that included a number of military units in northern Lebanon, Army Commander General Rodolphe Heikal stressed that protecting the borders represents a national priority amid the exceptional circumstances the country is going through, affirming the military institution’s continued performance of its duties to preserve security and stability.

Heikal began his tour by inspecting the command of the 1st Land Border Regiment in the town of Chadra, Akkar, where he reviewed the measures adopted to monitor and control the northern and eastern borders. He then moved on to the command of the 2nd Infantry Brigade at Hanna Ghastine Barracks in Arman, and the command of the 10th Infantry Brigade in the town of Kfarshakhna, Zgharta.

During his meeting with soldiers on the occasion of Army Day, the army commander praised their efforts and sacrifices, stressing that their role constitutes the fundamental pillar for protecting Lebanon and safeguarding its internal security. He said the troops are carrying out their national duty with dedication despite major challenges, and that their sacrifices contribute to preserving the country’s unity and securing the conditions necessary for the continued functioning of state institutions.

Heikal called for maintaining the highest levels of readiness through continuous training, noting that the military institution looks forward to the end of the occupation and the deployment of the army across all Lebanese territory in order to fully carry out its national duties.

He also affirmed that the Lebanese people’s confidence in the military institution serves as an incentive to continue fulfilling its national mission, despite attempts to cast doubt on its role or undermine its standing.

At the conclusion of his tour, the army commander offered condolences for the martyrdom of First Sergeant Elie Jbeily, recruit Omar Khadr, and Sergeant Bilal Khaled, praising their courage and dedication and affirming that their sacrifices will remain a symbol of loyalty for the sake of Lebanon.