Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun reassured citizens of the army's resilience and commitment to safeguarding Lebanon's sovereignty and stability amid ongoing challenges, emphasizing the military’s role as a unifying force that  serves all Lebanese equally.  

"To our people and nation, rest assured: there is no turning back, and there is no fear for the army. It will remain steadfast alongside you despite all challenges, protecting Lebanon and defending its security, stability, and sovereignty. The army will continue to embrace and unite all Lebanese, regardless of their affiliations, and will maintain an equal distance from everyone," Aoun said on the occasion of Lebanon's 81st Independence Day. 

“The army will remain the safe haven trusted by all, with the hope that the situation stabilizes, institutions regain their vitality, and Lebanese, both residents and expatriates, restore their confidence in their homeland," he added. 

Reflecting on Lebanon's independence, Aoun hailed the sacrifices of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.

"Eighty-one years mark the modern history of Lebanon, a nation whose roots go back thousands of years," he said. “The Cedar Nation achieved its independence thanks to its people who, despite their differences, united under one flag to defend their country, shedding blood for Lebanon while rising above sectarianism and division.”  

Lebanon’s history, he added, serves as a testament to the resilience of its people, who have weathered crises, wars, and foreign interventions.

"Lebanon, a homeland for all its citizens, has endured crises, wars, divisions, and foreign interventions. Yet, like its resilient cedars, it has stood firm against enemies and those threatening its security and stability—foremost among them the Israeli enemy—serving as a testament to the enduring truth of history: unity and determination ensure resilience and steadfastness."

Aoun's address come as Lebanon endures a prolonged and destructive war with Israel, which has left thousands dead and displaced countless others. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the nation, particularly in the South, Bekaa, and Beirut.  

“This year’s Independence Day comes as our country suffers under a brutal and destructive war waged by the Israeli enemy for over a year,” he said. “While the enemy persists in its daily violations, efforts are intensifying to achieve a ceasefire that would grant our nation a period of calm, paving the way for the return of our people in the South to their lands and other displaced families to their homes."

The army remains actively deployed in the South, working in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) under Resolution 1701.

"The army will not abandon the South, as it is an inseparable part of national sovereignty. Operating in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) under Resolution 1701, the army stands beside its people, fulfilling its national duty and carrying out missions despite difficulties and dangers," he said. 

Amid mounting challenges, Aoun underscored the army’s commitment to preserving national unity and civil peace, describing them as "red lines that no one will be allowed to cross."  

“The army continues its duties across all Lebanese territories, countering every attempt to destabilize security and stability,” he said.  

He also addressed criticism and incitement campaigns targeting the military, vowing that such attacks would not deter its mission.

“These campaigns will only strengthen the army’s resolve, determination, and cohesion,” he said, noting the broad local and international support the institution enjoys.  

Aoun paid tribute to the sacrifices of the army’s martyrs, particularly those who have fallen in the South.

“On this annual occasion, we honor the martyrs of the military institution over the years, especially those who have recently sacrificed their lives in the South for Lebanon,” he said. “Their blood will blossom into glory and pride, breathing new life into Lebanon.”