Beirut:Defense Minister Major General Michel Menassa has strongly defended the leadership of the Lebanese Army, emphasizing the exclusive authority of the Army Command over military orders and operational directives.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Menassa responded to recent criticism directed at the military establishment, including calls for the Army Commander's resignation and claims of obligatory compliance with government decisions. He clarified that while the Council of Ministers has authority over general defense and security policy decisions, operational orders are solely the responsibility of the Army Command.
Menassa highlighted the Army's primary mission to defend Lebanon against various threats, maintain national unity and civil peace, and ensure internal stability. He reiterated the Army's commitment to political decisions from the executive authority and directives from President Joseph Aoun, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, while stressing the importance of considering the Army's capabilities and resources in decision-making.
He further described the Army as a unifying institution that transcends sectarian and political divisions in Lebanon. Menassa warned against actions that could undermine the Army's leadership and its role in protecting the nation, reminding citizens that the Army's greatest reward is the love of the Lebanese people.
