For many years, many were reassured that their children, "sons of the state," whether they belonged to the Lebanese Army or the Internal Security Forces, were safe. "Our children are secure," would express the father who decided to send his son to the military, motivated by the fact that the salary was good, health benefits were excellent, and other services were available... This was the reality that accompanied these fathers and mothers until some of them had to hear the news of their son's desertion due to the deteriorating conditions in the country, decreasing salaries, and lack of services.
As for those on active duty, they feel the ongoing struggle between the readiness to stay despite the challenges and the urge to seek exemption or desert. The "nation" is tired, just like everyone else. For the first time, some find themselves confused, not wanting to complain, but circumstances push them to do so.
On the first of August each year, Lebanon celebrates National Army Day. This is a fundamental constant, and it's agreed upon by all regarding its role and the necessity of supporting it. It is certain that the army will continue to carry out its missions across all Lebanese territories, no matter how severe the challenges. The orders given to Army Commander General Joseph Aoun yesterday on this occasion reinforce this confirmation. Monitoring sources tell "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency that Arab and Western countries have come together to support the army through financial assistance, in-kind contributions, or other means amidst the government's turmoil and major financial crises that have sidelined any proposed support mechanism for the military institution. Thus, any assistance the institution receives is now "made abroad." They point out that before the end of each month, military personnel find themselves repeatedly asking: Will we receive our salaries? They add that the issue does not stop there, but at the struggle to receive their salary amidst the crowds at banks to get fresh dollars or being forced to borrow from a colleague to match their salary to the exchange rate. These sources emphasize that the time has come to arrange a clear mechanism for security forces to allow them to continue their work without having to face the same state of confusion each time. They clarify that there are ideas related to allocating specific amounts for the army and security forces' budgets and providing essential incentives to help sustain them and facilitating certain exemptions for institution members. The sources express their belief that international support for Lebanon, particularly for security apparatuses, continues, noting that the attachment of army personnel and officers to the military institution would contribute to their unity and prevent fragmentation. They observe that the reluctance or decision of some to desert the institution is an individual case, and any additional effort to provide assistance or facilitation would ensure addressing the matter, but on the condition of its continuation. In conclusion, the sources reaffirm that the words of the army commander on the occasion of August 1 regarding the cohesion and resilience of the institution is the strongest message for all stakeholders.
