Army Commander General Rodolph Haykal reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strengthening its capabilities to serve as the primary guarantor of national security and to defend citizens across all Lebanese territory.
Speaking at an extraordinary meeting at Army Headquarters in Yarzeh, attended by senior command staff, operational unit commanders, and officers, General Haykal said the army is close to completing the first phase of its strategic plan and is conducting careful assessment and planning for subsequent phases, taking into account all prevailing conditions and variables.
The meeting addressed the latest developments affecting Lebanon and the military amid what Haykal described as an exceptional and highly sensitive period, marked by ongoing Israeli violations and attacks.
The session opened with a minute of silence in honor of fallen Army personnel and national martyrs, including a soldier killed in an enemy airstrike on the Quneitra–Maamariyeh–Sidon road on December 22, 2025.
General Haykal extended Christmas and New Year greetings to all service members, expressing hope that the coming year would bring peace, stability, and prosperity to Lebanon and its people.
عقد قائد الجيش العماد رودولف هيكل في اليرزة اجتماعًا استثنائيًّا، حضره أركان القيادة وقادة الوحدات والأفواج العملانية، وعدد من الضباط، وتناول فيه آخر التطورات التي يمر بها لبنان والجيش في ظل المرحلة الاستثنائية الحالية، وسط استمرار الانتهاكات والاعتداءات الإسرائيلية.
— الجيش اللبناني (@LebarmyOfficial) December 23, 2025
استُهل… pic.twitter.com/j2eB0OMxuw
He emphasized that the sacrifices and sustained efforts of military personnel across all ranks remain a cornerstone of Lebanon’s resilience and future, stressing that the Army’s core principles are unwavering despite mounting pressures. “Every role within the Army is vital,” he said, “and every act of service contributes to a stronger future for our country.”
Addressing his recent visit to France, General Haykal highlighted the strong international confidence in the army’s professional performance, noting that such trust persists despite periodic accusations and what he described as Israeli attempts to undermine the army’s credibility and doctrine. He said this confidence underpins ongoing preparations for an international conference to support the Lebanese Army.
“One of the key reasons for continued support is the Army’s consistent fulfillment of its duties across Lebanon, particularly in the south, despite limited resources,” Haykal said. He praised troops for their dedication during high-risk missions, their resilience under pressure, and their cooperation with local communities, the ceasefire monitoring committee, and UNIFIL.
Reiterating the Army’s vision, General Haykal said enhancing military capabilities is essential for safeguarding national security, a goal that requires substantial and high-quality support—an understanding he said is shared by brotherly and friendly nations backing Lebanon’s security institutions.
He also commended Army units for successfully carrying out security, border monitoring, and protection missions, including through coordination with Syrian authorities.
General Haykal concluded by wishing continued success for the Lebanese Army and expressing hope for a promising future in which Lebanese citizens can realize their aspirations.
Source: Al-Manar Website