On the occasion of the 82nd anniversary of Lebanon’s independence, Army Commander General Rodolphe Haikal reaffirmed that the military’s deployment plan in the South is “progressing as scheduled,” despite what he described as “exceptional circumstances” requiring “prudence, restraint, and professionalism.”
He noted that since the ceasefire came into effect on November 27, 2024, the army has intensified “its deployment in South Lebanon up to the Litani River,” in accordance with the government’s decision and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and in close coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the ceasefire monitoring committee.
“You are the heart of the nation.”
In a message to the troops, General Haikal stressed that Independence Day symbolizes “the struggle of the Lebanese people, united in the face of hardship, to secure their permanent right to a homeland.” He warned that the country is currently experiencing “one of the most challenging phases in its history,” urging soldiers to “remain loyal to national values, stay vigilant, and not be swayed by slander or rumors.”
“You are the heart of the nation,” he declared, affirming that the strength of the army lies in the steadfastness of each of its members.
Heavy sacrifices and renewed commitment
Haikal praised the “tremendous sacrifices” made by the military institution, recalling that many soldiers “have fallen as martyrs or been wounded in defense of the nation’s sovereignty.” He reaffirmed that the army will spare “no effort” to protect every inch of Lebanese territory and to facilitate the return of displaced residents to their villages.
He emphasized, however, the need for greater state support to ensure the success of the mission — including improving service conditions, providing essential resources, and mobilizing a “comprehensive national effort.”
Counterterrorism and securing the borders
Alongside its deployment in the South, the army continues its operations “to combat terrorism, pursue lawbreakers, fight drug trafficking, secure the northern and eastern borders as well as Lebanon’s territorial waters, and curb smuggling in coordination with the relevant Syrian authorities,” the commander said.
A message to the Lebanese people
General Haikal appealed for unity: “Remain faithful to your army, for it is your guarantee in difficult times. Your trust is essential to its continuity, and internal unity is the foundation for Lebanon’s renewal.”
قائد الجيش العماد رودولف هيكل في #أمر_اليوم لمناسبة العيد ٨٢ للاستقلال:
— الجيش اللبناني (@LebarmyOfficial) November 21, 2025
أيها العسكريون
تحلُّ علينا ذكرى عيد الاستقلال هذا العام، مجسّدة نضالًا خاضه اللبنانيون منذ اثنين وثمانين عامًا، مُتَّحِدين في وجه صعوباتٍ كبرى، إلى أن انتزعوا حقَّهم في وطنٍ نهائيٍّ يضمهم تحت عَلَمه، إخوةً في… pic.twitter.com/OoWqPM6ecL
Comments