Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal inspected the Lebanese-Syrian border today, shortly after a meeting with US Deputy Envoy to the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, at his Yarzeh office. The meeting, attended by US Ambassador Lisa Johnson and a delegation, focused on the overall situation in Lebanon and the region, with particular emphasis on border security.
General Haykal visited the command of the 2ᵉ Land Border Regiment and regimental posts in the al-Qaa region, and a unit of the 9ᵉ Infantry Brigade in the Hermel region, where he was briefed on the difficulties faced by the units in their areas of responsibility and praised the efforts of their personnel to monitor and control the borders, which contributes directly to preserving Lebanon's security and stability.
He also addressed the soldiers and officers, saying: “The army is the inclusive national institution that protects our country in all its components, in which soldiers from different Lebanese regions join to defend the country and maintain its security within and along the borders. You are fully fulfilling your duty thanks to your determination, fighting smuggling and playing a positive role in the border area between Lebanon and Syria, in constant communication and coordination with the Syrian authorities.”
“Lebanon's primary enemy is the Israeli enemy, which persists in continually violating Lebanon's sovereignty and the security of its citizens,” he added.
As part of the inspection, the Lebanese Army deployed additional troops along the northern Lebanese-Syrian border. Ten armored vehicles, along with military helicopters, were seen arriving in the area. A Cessna aircraft belonging to the Lebanese Army also patrolled the airspace over Hermel and the surrounding border villages during the visit.
General Haykal's inspection follows his recent assumption of command amidst pressing regional issues, particularly in southern Lebanon, where Israel continues to occupy five locations. There are ongoing internal and international demands for the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. His visit also comes in the wake of recent clashes between local tribes and members of the new Syrian administration, which concluded with a ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Syria.
The Lebanese leadership, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, has been discussing border demarcation issues with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Salam expressed his intention to visit Damascus to further discuss bilateral matters.
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