Army Chief Vows Fight against Terrorism, Release of Abdcuted Servicemen
Newly-appointed Army Commander General Joseph Aoun assured on Friday that the army's efforts to fight terrorism will continue, and its endeavors to release the kidnapped servicemen will not stop.
Aoun's comments came in his Order of the Day on the occasion of his appointment as Army chief replacing General Jean Qahwaji, he said: “The new (presidential) term depends on the role of your institution to provide a comprehensive and sustainable security and stability, so be ready to continue the war against terrorism with all the power you have got.
“Put before your eyes the release of your fellow servicemen and their return back to their families and institution as fast as possible,” added Aoun.
“I am honored to be entrusted with this great confidence by the President and Premiership and be appointed as Army chief. I receive the Army command in the midst of difficult regional circumstances, and waves of terror that still touch on our borders. I am confident that at present and in the future you will rise up to the hopes entrusted in you,” he concluded.
The security appointments approved by the cabinet on Wednesday ended a deadlock that twice forced an extension of the term of the army's sitting head.
A ministerial source said the appointments had "the consensus of all the political forces," adding the new chief was "well-known and removed from any political conflicts."
Joseph Aoun is not related to President Michel Aoun, himself a former army chief, although the two served together in the military.
Lebanon's already fractious political scene has faced tensions linked to the war in neighboring Syria since March 2011.
Source: Naharnet, Agence France Presse
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