Constitutional Council Rejects Army Chief’s Term Extension Appeal

On Wednesday, the Constitutional Council in Lebanon convened but failed to come to a decision regarding the Free Patriotic Movement’s appeal against the recent extension of the term of the army chief. As a result, as reported by the National News Agency, the extension of the army chief’s term will stand.

This decision comes in the context of Lebanon’s challenging political and security situation. On December 15, the Parliament had extended the mandate of the army chief, Joseph Aoun, to prevent a leadership vacuum in the military. This move was particularly significant given the ongoing repercussions of the Israel-Hamas war and the absence of both a president and a fully operational government in Lebanon.

The situation was compounded by the fact that Joseph Aoun was due to retire on January 10, and the position next in seniority within the military was already vacant.

Lebanon has been grappling with a presidential void for over a year, and the government has been functioning in a caretaker role due to a political stalemate that has stalled decision-making processes. The Lebanese army, with approximately 80,000 personnel, is regarded as a crucial element in maintaining the country’s stability amidst these challenges.