In a defiant address marking Resistance and Liberation Day, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Rodolphe Haykal pledged Friday that his forces “will be the impregnable barrier against conspiracies” seeking to undermine Lebanon’s stability as Israeli attacks continue to batter southern Lebanon.
The anniversary, Haykal told military personnel, remains “a bright milestone in Lebanon’s history,” representing “the Lebanese people’s attachment to their land, sovereignty, and national dignity in the face of Israeli occupation.” He paid homage to “the sacrifices of the martyrs and all those who contributed to safeguarding the homeland.”
But Lebanon is still suffering the consequences of Israeli aggression, the army chief warned pointing to “destruction, thousands of martyrs and wounded, and the occupation of Lebanese territory.” He said the military is operating at “its maximum capabilities under complex conditions and major dangers” to support citizens, “especially the displaced and resilient.”
Addressing soldiers directly, Haykal urged them to “hold firmly to your mission and maintain your morale and constant readiness,” stressing that “civil peace and national unity are the strongest weapons to protect Lebanon and its stability.”
He cautioned that attacks on the military institution and questioning its role “serve Lebanon’s enemies,” adding that the army “will remain, thanks to the steadfastness of its personnel and the sacrifices of its martyrs and wounded, strong, cohesive, and a guardian of national unity.”
“Our hope remains great in reclaiming every inch of our land,” Haykal concluded, “while the Lebanese, through their sacrifices, set an example in determination.”
His words come as no ceasefire has stopped the Israeli onslaught. This week alone, an Israeli airstrike on the southern town of Deir Qanoun al-Nahr martyred 14 people including four children and three women according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Health. Additional strikes in Doueir and Tebnine have killed several more.
Since early March, intensified Israeli attacks have martyred over 3,000 people across Lebanon, with more than 9,000 wounded. Residential buildings, agricultural land, and civilian infrastructure continue to be targeted deepening insecurity and driving further displacement despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
Source: Al-Manar English Webste