Army Commander General Joseph Aoun held a meeting in Yarzeh with the leadership staff, commanders of major units, and independent regiments, providing them with necessary guidelines and procedures to ensure the security of the parliamentary elections and to successfully complete them.
During the meeting, General Aoun affirmed that the army is operationally and security-wise ready for this task, and that it maintains a neutral stance towards all parties. What matters to him is the successful and democratic completion of the electoral process.
He pointed out the ongoing targeting campaign against the military institution regarding the preparation for the elections, reaffirming that the army remains neutral and is not a party in this electoral challenge whatsoever. The army intervenes only in cases of problems or clashes to prevent worsening of the situation. He called on the parties involved in the elections to demonstrate national responsibility and cooperate with the military institution to fulfill this event calmly and democratically.
General Aoun also addressed the incident of the boat sinking off the coast of Tripoli, indicating that the army continues its search operations and has contacted several friendly countries for assistance in recovering the boat. He confirmed that the army, which has fulfilled its duty, is handling the matter with complete transparency and has opened an investigation into the incident. He expressed regret over the campaign of accusations and incitement directed at the army following the incident, which has been exploited for electoral purposes. He emphasized that the army operates within the framework of the law and will continue to do so, as proven in the port explosion incident and the Tleil incident, where investigations were completed within three weeks and referred to the judiciary, while some continue to target the army with pre-judgments.
General Aoun expressed his deep appreciation for the military personnel who demonstrated the highest levels of discipline, patience, and determination during this economic and financial crisis, praising their efforts and sacrifices, and considering them a source of pride for the leadership and a point of trust for the Lebanese people and friendly nations. He also expressed his absolute confidence that they will fulfill their responsibilities during this electoral event and that accusations and criticisms will not undermine their will, determination, or morale.
