Defense Minister: There is No National Consensus on Military Appointments by the Caretaker Government

The Minister of National Defense in the caretaker government, Maurice Sleem, affirmed his commitment to the military institution, stating in an interview with MTV Lebanon that he only engages in matters related to the Ministry of Defense based on defense law. He emphasized that he does not get involved in politics or take positions based on political grounds, and he will not accept any disruption regarding the conclusion of the Army Commander's term. He noted that he tried "politically three months before the end of the President's term to preempt the situation," but there was no national consensus. He added, "I do not bypass the law, and I do not accept anyone to breach it... Most political forces reject the caretaker government making appointments, and when consensus is achieved, I propose names and go to the Cabinet."