Army's Operation in Ras Baalbek Continues for Second Day in a Row
The army continued to target on Friday militant posts on the outskirts of the northeastern border village of Ras Baalbek in the Bekaa, the state-run National News Agency reported.
The sounds of explosions were heard in nearby villages in the Bekaa.
The Lebanese army helicopters accompanied troops on the field along Lebanon's Eastern Mountain Range.
Army Commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji and Defense Minister Samir Moqbel also toured the outskirts of Ras Baalbek to inspect the progress of the military operation.
The Lebanese army seized on Thursday two hilltop positions on the outskirts of Ras Baalbek.
Moqbel hailed thecapabilities of the Lebanese troops who defeated the terrorists and took full control of the two strategic posts.
“The army's accomplishments confirm that it has a solid national conviction,” the defense minister said.
For his part, Qahwaji stressed that the continuous sacrifices made by soldiers deployed along Lebanon's eastern border are aimed at safeguarding the nearby villages and block infiltration attempts by terrorist organizations.
“The unique military operation reflects the army's strict decision to combat terrorism and protect citizens.”
The army command said in a communique that the operation was in line with efforts to secure villages near the eastern border with neighboring Syria.
Three soldiers were wounded in the operation, during which militant positions were shelled with artillery and heavy weaponry, it added.
The statement did not name the militants, but most are believed to be from the Islamic State group. They and the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front have been holding around 20 Lebanese soldiers and policemen hostage since August.
The army frequently clashes with the militants in their hideouts near the Syria border.
H.K.
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