Lebanon's newly appointed army commander, General Rodolphe Haykal, has vowed to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and security, emphasizing the military's critical role in maintaining stability amid ongoing regional tensions.

In his first "Order of the Day" address to troops following his appointment, Haykal expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Joseph Aoun, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and the Council of Ministers. He acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with leading the army at such a critical time.

“This trust carries with it a heavy responsibility, especially amid the difficult circumstances our region is experiencing,” Haykal said. “It compels me to exert my utmost efforts to uphold this duty and to walk alongside you on the path of honor, sacrifice, and loyalty.”

Haykal underscored the need for unity and cooperation within the military, urging soldiers to remain committed to the army's core values.

“For the army to continue fulfilling its role as the nation’s safeguard, we must all work together — officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers — as brothers in arms. We must remain steadfast in our national principles and resolute in our unyielding will,” he added.

He highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Israel, noting that the army's resilience is essential to ensuring Lebanon’s stability and enabling its economic and social recovery.

“The historic challenges before us, foremost among them the ongoing threats and aggressions from the Israeli enemy, reaffirm the importance of our resilience and continued success,” Haykal stated.

He also reiterated the army’s commitment to implementing U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for a cessation of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Additionally, Haykal emphasized the army's role in countering terrorism and safeguarding internal security.

“The army’s responsibility in this critical phase is of utmost importance, particularly through its work in implementing Resolution 1701 and fortifying our internal front against the threat of terrorism,” he said.

Haykal pledged to improve conditions for soldiers, acknowledging the hardships they have endured in recent years amid Lebanon's economic crisis.

“Know that as your commander, I stand before you and with you. I will strive tirelessly to improve your conditions and support your rights after a period in which you endured immense pressures,” he said.

He further vowed to modernize the institution and honor the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives in service, stating: “Together, we will preserve our independence, care for our wounded, and honor our martyrs, embodying the values of commitment, sacrifice, competence, transparency, and integrity.”

Concluding his address, Haykal called on the Lebanese people to rally behind the army, emphasizing that national unity is key to overcoming the country's challenges.

“As history has taught us, the unity of the Lebanese people and their support for their army are key to overcoming even the greatest obstacles,” he said. “Let us all work together, guided by our values and principles — the principles of honor, sacrifice, and loyalty — for the revival and stability of Lebanon.”