The Minister of National Defense in the caretaker government, Maurice Slim, emphasized during his meetings in his office in Yarzeh earlier today, the necessity of being aware of the risks associated with the current phase in light of the various scattered security incidents occurring in different regions. He assured that the army and security forces are a guarantee of security and stability, especially in these critical circumstances that the country is experiencing, and that they are always ready to fulfill their national duty regardless of the challenges and sacrifices involved.
Slim met with the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to peaceful assembly and association, Clément Nyaletsossi Voulé, who was leading a delegation. During the meeting, they discussed the state of civil liberties, particularly the freedom of assembly, and sought clarification on the extent of Lebanon's compliance with its international obligations in this regard, as well as the challenges facing these freedoms in the region and in Lebanon, and the mechanisms for protecting them.
In this context, the Minister of Defense affirmed that Lebanon is one of the founding members of the United Nations and has contributed to the establishment of the Charter of Human Rights. He stated that the country adheres to the provisions of international covenants and agreements related to human rights. Additionally, he highlighted that the Lebanese Constitution and laws enshrine the right to protest and express opinions. He stressed that the army adheres to all Lebanese and international laws that safeguard public freedoms, particularly freedom of expression and assembly. The Directorate of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights is responsible for ensuring the proper application of these laws by army units and agencies.
