Berri: Lebanese Placing Hopes on the Army

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri marked the Lebanese Army’s 80th anniversary on Thursday with a tribute highlighting the institution’s enduring role in maintaining national unity and safeguarding sovereignty.

A Legacy of Sacrifice and National Cohesion

In a formal statement, Berri praised the army’s longstanding service since its establishment in 1945, describing it as a unifying force in a divided landscape. “For eighty years, this national institution has consecrated our celebrations with loyalty, defended our sovereignty through immense sacrifices, and upheld unity with the honor of belonging,” he said.

He extended his admiration and respect to every level of the armed forces—from its leadership to the fallen and injured soldiers—emphasizing that the army continues to symbolize the hopes of the Lebanese people for protection, security, and national renewal. “It remains the central pillar for defending both the land and its people,” Berri declared.

Army’s Role Reaffirmed Amid Political Tensions

Berri’s statement came shortly after Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun emphasized the army’s role as the cornerstone of national defense. In his remarks, Aoun stated that “no guarantee is stronger than the army’s weapons when facing aggression,” highlighting the military’s reliability during times of instability.

General Aoun further urged all factions in the country—including Hezbollah and its broader support base—to place their trust in the Lebanese state. “Let us all rally behind the army,” he asserted, noting its leadership and loyalty as unmatched pillars in the country’s defense framework. He also issued a pointed warning to those indifferent to the country’s wellbeing, affirming he would show no tolerance for those unwilling to contribute to Lebanon’s recovery.

Broader Implications for Lebanon’s Stability

The army’s 80th anniversary comes at a time when Lebanon continues to grapple with profound political divisions, economic hardship, and regional tensions. While the military is often seen as one of the few functioning and respected national institutions, debates over issues such as the possession of arms by groups like Hezbollah persist. Both Berri and Aoun’s remarks reflect a broader push to reinforce state institutions as the sole guarantors of national stability.

Their coordinated appeals underscore a renewed effort to position the army not just as a security apparatus, but as a symbol of collective identity and a beacon for Lebanon’s path forward. As public confidence in political leadership wavers, the Lebanese Armed Forces remain a unifying presence in a country struggling to navigate deep-rooted crises.