Several Lebanese MPs from the Change parliamentary bloc and independent lawmakers launched a wave of criticism against Lebanese Army Commander General Rodolphe Haikal, suggesting that the army has been lenient in implementing government decisions regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah north of the Litani River.
The criticism prompted counter-reactions from other officials expressing solidarity with the army and voicing support for its role.
On Saturday, Haikal said that “Israeli attacks targeting Lebanon and its citizens are hindering the implementation of the army’s plan”.
He stressed that the “command makes its decisions in line with the complex circumstances on the ground, with the primary goal of preserving Lebanon, safeguarding its unity, and maintaining the military institution”.
He added that the “army is operating under severe internal and external pressure and with limited resources, while exerting every effort to protect domestic stability and national unity”.
Independent MPs and lawmakers from the Change bloc criticized Haikal.
MP Michel Moawad said the army’s stance contradicts its constitutional role and could undermine efforts by the government and the international community to move Lebanon out of the war and reinforce a clear separation between the state and Hezbollah.
MP Mark Daou also expressed surprise at the stance of the Lebanese army command, saying it should have clearly affirmed its commitment to government decisions and explicitly stated that the military wing of Hezbollah is now an outlaw under those decisions.
MP Waddah Sadek said the Lebanese army command is not a political body that expresses opinions on developments or proposes solutions. Rather, he stressed, it is responsible for an institution tasked with implementing the decisions of the executive authority, including the recent government’s decision declaring Hezbollah an outlaw.
The army command is required to implement government decisions immediately. It does not have the authority to assess them, according to Sadek.
The criticism of the army also drew backlash from other MPs.
Former MP Fares Souaid said attacks on the military at this stage are irresponsible, stressing that any mistakes should be addressed within state institutions rather than through public criticism of a body that safeguards civil peace.
Meanwhile, Lebanon and France postponed an international conference to support the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces that had been scheduled in Paris on March 5, citing unsuitable conditions amid the ongoing regional tensions linked to the Iranian–US–Israeli confrontation.
