Fellow Troops,
Eighty-one years represent the modern chapter of Lebanon, a country whose origins trace back thousands of years. The land of the cedars gained its independence thanks to its people who unified at that time, despite their different affiliations, under the banner of their flag to defend and protect their homeland. Lebanon, which unites all its components and serves as the final homeland for all Lebanese, has faced successive crises, wars, divisions, and interventions. Yet, it has remained resilient like its cedars, resistant to enemies and those who seek to disrupt its security and stability, foremost among them the Israeli enemy. Lebanon stands as a testament to a profound lesson in history: that the unity and determination of the people is sufficient to achieve resilience and steadfastness.
This year, as we commemorate Independence Day, our nation is suffering from a devastating and barbaric war waged by the Israeli enemy for over a year, resulting in thousands of martyrs and wounded. This aggression has led to the displacement of our people from their villages and towns in the South, the Bekaa, and Beirut. As the enemy escalates its daily violations and attacks, efforts are intensifying to reach a ceasefire that would bring peace to our country, paving the way for our people in the South to return to their land, and for the other displaced to return to their homes.
Fellow Troops,
The LAF continues to be deployed in the South, where soldiers make sacrifices and give their lives for Lebanon, and will not abandon it, because it is an integral part of national sovereignty. It also operates in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) under the framework of Resolution 1701. Our forces stand alongside their people, fulfilling their national duty, and carry out their missions despite the challenges and dangers they face. Since the beginning of the displacement of our people from the South, the military institution has taken the initiative to coordinate with state agencies and assist the displaced, especially the families of soldiers. At the same time, many neighboring and friend countries quickly extended an aiding hand, as did numerous loving and supportive Lebanese citizens.
Simultaneously, the army continues to carry out its missions throughout all the Lebanese territory, actively countering any attempts to disrupt security and stability. National unity and civil peace are paramount priorities and constitute a red line that will not be crossed by anyone. It is essential to recognize that the protection and preservation of the homeland is a collective and shared responsibility for all Lebanese.
The accusations and incitement campaigns against the LAF will only serve to strengthen its resolve, determination, and unity. This institution, which enjoys broad local and international support, will remain steadfast in its principles, commitments, and responsibilities toward Lebanon and its people, unaffected by any narrow interests.
Fellow Troops,
At this annual occasion, we honor the martyrs of the military institution throughout the years, including those who recently sacrificed their lives in the South for Lebanon. Their blood will nurture the land, bringing forth glory and vitality that will revive Lebanon once again.
We assure our people that there is no turning back, and there is no threat to the army, which will remain steadfast by their side despite all challenges. It will continue to protect Lebanon, defend its security, stability, and sovereignty, and will remain a unifying force, embracing all Lebanese, regardless of their backgrounds, standing equally with each and every one of them. It will remain the trusted safe haven for all, with the hope that the situation will stabilize, institutions will regain their strength and functionality, and both resident and expatriate Lebanese will renew their faith in their country, enabling it to embrace the aspirations and hopes of its youth.
Yarzeh, on 21/11/2024
LAF Commander in chief
General Joseph Aoun
