Gen. Aoun lashes out at those 'fabricating rumors' against army

Army Commander General Joseph Aoun has fiercely lashed out at unnamed parties whom he accused of “fabricating rumors and files” against the military institution.

“As the army offers hefty sacrifices and shoulders its responsibilities with professionalism and expertise despite the challenges, some fanatics and concerned and unconcerned officials continue to fabricate rumors and files, tarnish the institution’s image and accuse us of corruption and breaking the law,” Aoun said in a speech in the Bekaa.

“If breaking the law allows me to accept aid from the Lebanese who love the institution inside and outside the country and to provide medicine, food and transportation for soldiers and hospitalization and tuition aid for their families … then I will break the law,” the commander added.

“Their concern is personal interests and your concern is the country’s interest, protecting civil peace and defending your oath,” Aoun told soldiers.

“We will not care about their accusations,” the army chief added, stressing that the military institution “will remain bigger than their files and rumors.”

He added: “May God aid an army that is fighting stupidity, expensiveness, the pandemic and the lack of modesty and loyalty.”