The Cabinet is Considering Either Extending Aoun’s Tenure or Appointing Qahwaji as the Interim Leader

In its upcoming Friday session, the Cabinet might consider two options regarding the leadership of the army, as reported by al-Joumhouria newspaper on Wednesday. The first option is to postpone the retirement of the current Army Chief, General Joseph Aoun, for an additional six months. Alternatively, they could assign Brig. Gen. Tony Qahwaji, the director of military intelligence, as the acting army chief.

If Qahwaji is appointed, it would occur without the involvement or recommendation of the defense minister. Regardless of the decision made, it could be challenged through an appeal to the State Shoura Council.

The newspaper also highlighted potential issues that might arise from Qahwaji’s appointment, particularly concerning the relationship between the defense minister and the army chief. This appointment could have significant implications for the functioning of the military institution.

The state-run National News Agency has confirmed that the Cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place at the Grand Serail at 12:30 pm on Friday.