Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called on the country’s security forces to perform their duties with integrity and independence, free from political and sectarian influence.

During a visit to the Internal Security Forces (ISF) and General Security Directorates on Thursday, Aoun stressed that the Lebanese people expect these institutions to deliver real results in safeguarding the nation’s stability.

"These institutions must carry out their tasks with ethics, without succumbing to political pressure or sectarian interference," Aoun said.

The president also emphasized that Lebanon's security officials should prioritize the nation’s interests above all else, assuring them that he would personally protect them if any external interference arises.

"Don’t owe loyalty to anyone but Lebanon," Aoun declared. "Serve the country and enforce the law."

Aoun also underscored the importance of a stable security situation for Lebanon’s economic prosperity, noting that a secure country is a prosperous one.

"The people are weary, and they deserve our sacrifices for their sake," he added. "We have a tremendous opportunity ahead of us, and we must seize it on all levels. We must show the people that we are ready and capable of building the state — and we will do it."

Aoun’s comments came during his visit to the ISF and General Security Directorates, where he was accompanied by Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar.

Visit to ISF Headquarters

The president’s visit began at the ISF headquarters, where he was welcomed by Minister Al-Hajjar, ISF Director-General Major General Raed Abdallah, and senior officers. After a meeting with Abdallah, Aoun addressed a group of unit leaders, regional commanders, and department heads.

"I want to congratulate General Abdallah and the members of the leadership council on their appointments and their new responsibilities," Aoun said. "The person in charge must rise to the occasion — the position is not an end in itself, but a tool to achieve clear, well-defined goals."

Aoun also reflected on his personal connection to the ISF, noting that his father had served as a sergeant in the force.

"It’s your responsibility to restore the dignity and prestige this institution once had, and I won’t let anyone undermine it," he said.

He further stressed that the Lebanese people expect results from the security forces. He praised the ISF for its commitment to the country’s welfare and urged its officers to perform their duties with professionalism, free from political or sectarian influence.

Visit to General Security Directorate

The president then visited the General Security Directorate, where he was greeted by General Security Director Major General Mohammed Shukeir and department heads. After meeting with Shukeir, Aoun addressed General Security personnel, congratulating them on their new roles and wishing them success in their work.

"The world is ready to help us, but we must first help ourselves," he said.

He urged security forces to act in accordance with their conscience, military honor, and national interest, and to resist political or sectarian pressure, especially with upcoming elections.

Aoun reiterated that Lebanon’s state institutions should be the protectors of the nation, not sectarian groups.

"The state protects, not the sects," he emphasized. "Political parties protect their own interests, and sects do the same. But for you, your sole interest should be Lebanon."

The president also stressed the importance of cooperation between the Interior Ministry and the General Security Directorate.

"You must unite for the common good," he said. "Reject any requests or interference that go against the country’s interests. Help the people understand that any request outside the law will not be tolerated."