Army Commander Major General Joseph Aoun visited the Security Office in the southern suburb at Henry Chahab Barracks, accompanied by Intelligence Director Brigadier General Tony Kahwaji. He met with officers and soldiers, listening to a briefing about their missions and the challenges they face. He stated, "You face dangers daily in your area of responsibility to combat crimes that have increased due to the economic crisis, including kidnapping, theft, robbery, and the drug epidemic, which is more dangerous than terrorism as it spreads like poison into families and destroys them. You eradicate this danger daily, pursuing the merchants of death responsible for it, armed with your faith in the sanctity of your mission, your security awareness, discipline, and professionalism, which prevents civilian casualties."
General Aoun praised the success of the Intelligence Directorate’s elements along with their comrades from other units in rescuing the kidnapped Saudi individual, Mishari Al-Mutairi, within 48 hours and arresting many involved in his kidnapping. He noted that this achievement is a badge of honor for them due to its significant positive impact on Lebanon's reputation, proving that security is maintained thanks to the army, and saving the promising tourist season. He also urged them to disregard rumors, accusations, and slanders, affirming that support for the army and its personnel continues.
The Army Commander then visited the Intelligence Branch in the Beirut area at the Museum before moving on to the Command of the Third Intervention Regiment in Al-Manara.
