On the eve of Lebanon’s 82nd Independence Day, President Joseph Aoun toured the Lebanese Army’s South Litani sector at the Benoît Barakat barracks in Tyre, underscoring his support for the military and the country’s sovereignty.

Aoun was received by Army Commander Gen. Rodolf Haykal, Sector Commander Brig. Gen. Nicolas Tabet, and senior officers. The visit began with a military honor guard salute and the national anthem, followed by a ceremonial inspection of the troops. The president and Haykal then reviewed the local security situation in the sector commander’s office.

During a briefing in the operations hall, Haykal welcomed Aoun and emphasized that the inspection, coinciding with Independence Day, reaffirmed the president’s ongoing commitment to the army and to overseeing troops deployed in the South.

“Today, before Your Excellency, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to preserving Lebanon, its sovereignty, independence, and civil peace,” he said.

Colonel Rachad Bou Karam, head of operations in the South Litani sector, presented a detailed report supported by maps and statistics. The briefing covered the army’s ongoing operations under its strategic plan, including clearing explosives, securing weapons and facilities, and implementing the government’s policy to consolidate arms under state control. It also detailed troop deployments, permanent and temporary checkpoints, newly established posts along the border, and routine patrols to maintain security and stability in the region.

Aoun reviewed maps and photographs highlighting areas where Israeli forces had crossed the internationally recognized Blue Line while constructing a wall in southern Lebanon. Brig. Gen. Tabet also summarized discussions from the Mechanism Committee, reiterating Lebanon’s firm stance in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Addressing the officers, President Aoun offered his Independence Day congratulations, noting that this year’s traditional celebrations would be scaled back due to the country’s ongoing challenges.

“I came to the South on Independence Day to show that this region is always close to our hearts,” Aoun said. “The army, which protects the South as it does all of Lebanon, stands firm in defending our national dignity, sovereignty, and independence, honoring these principles with every sacrifice, undeterred by criticism, skepticism or provocation.”

He praised the army’s efforts across the South, with particular emphasis on the South Litani sector, and paid tribute to the 12 soldiers who have lost their lives since the implementation of the security plan.

Concluding the visit, Aoun extended Independence Day greetings to Commander Gen. Rodolf Haykal, commending his leadership and that of his team for ensuring the army fulfills its duties with dedication and integrity. The president expressed hope that by next year’s Independence Day, the South would be fully liberated, with the Lebanese flag flying alone along its borders as a symbol of sovereignty and national pride.