BEIRUT: The Lebanese Army Thursday reassured soldiers that the military stands stronger than ever in its fight against terrorism, and warned the small handful of defectors that Lebanon can do without them.
In its first public statement that directly addresses the issue of the hostages abducted during the fierce, five-day battle in August with jihadists in Arsal, the Army Command sought to boost the morale of its troops, committing to free the 27 captive soldiers and policemen.
“Today, your institution is stronger and remains steadfast in attempts to undermine its unity and its role,” the statement, addressed to soldiers, said.
“The Army remains open in the ongoing confrontation against terrorism,” it added, assuring soldiers that military measures taken along the eastern border with Syria, particularly in the Arsal region, have “besieged terrorist groups spread across the mountains and cut their supply routes.”
The statement said that while troops stand ready to confront any infiltration attempt into Lebanese towns and villages, the Army has made “huge achievements” in dismantling terrorist cells and arresting its members.
Terrorist will never be safe in Lebanon, the statement vowed.
It said the Army command is committed to the liberation of the 27 Lebanese soldiers and policemen held by Islamist militants from ISIS and Nusra Front.
“Their cause is our cause, and that means using all available methods while refusing to succumb to any blackmail that the terrorists could later use against the interests of the Army and the nation.”
Addressing the minority of soldiers who have defected to join Islamist militants, the statement said: “There is no room for traitors ... the Army does not need the services of any soldier who betrays his oath."
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