General Rodolphe Hekal, Commander of the Army, visited Britain from 24th to 26th June 2026, following an official invitation from his British counterpart, Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton. During the visit, General Hekal met with his British counterpart to discuss ways to support the army and enhance cooperation between the two sides. General Hekal expressed his gratitude to his British counterpart for supporting the military institution, appreciating Britain's continuous support for the army.
He also met with National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell, Lord Vernon Coaker, Minister of State for Defence in the House of Lords, and Hamish Falconer, Deputy Minister for Middle East and North Africa Affairs in the House of Commons. During these meetings, challenges faced by the army in maintaining security, stability, and border protection were discussed, alongside achieving a sustainable ceasefire in Lebanon.
General Hekal also visited the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where he met its commander, Maj Gen Nick Cowley, toured its facilities, and observed training activities.
He subsequently visited several special military units collaborating with the army.
On the occasion of the visit, the Lebanese Ambassador to Britain, Farah Bray, hosted a reception in honor of General Hekal at the embassy for the Lebanese community.