Cabinet approves new army commander and security chiefs

The Cabinet has confirmed key security and military appointments, naming Brig. Gen. Rudolph Haykal as army chief, Brig. Gen. Hassan Shqeir to lead General Security, Brig. Gen. Raed Abdallah as head of the Internal Security Forces, and Brig. Gen. Edgard Lawandos to oversee State Security.

Following the Cabinet session, Information Minister Paul Morkos emphasized that these appointments were based on expertise and competence, highlighting the government’s commitment to selecting leaders with strong professional credentials. In addition to these appointments, the government has approved the recruitment of 4,500 soldiers into the army, which will take place in three separate phases.

Morkos also revealed that a special Cabinet meeting is scheduled for Monday to establish a structured approach for future administrative appointments, ensuring a transparent and standardized process.

Financial and Security Concerns

As part of ongoing financial planning, a draft law aimed at reducing fees in the 2025 state budget has been prepared. The session also included discussions on economic policies, with President Joseph Aoun addressing the importance of implementing reforms tied to International Monetary Fund recommendations. The IMF delegation has stressed the urgency of appointing a central bank governor and making further amendments to the banking secrecy law, along with enacting the banking restructuring law.

On security matters, Aoun reassured officials that Lebanese authorities are closely monitoring developments in Syria. He affirmed that security agencies remain on high alert, prepared to respond to any potential regional threats.