Qahwaji: Army’s Response in Odaissah Was in Defense of Its Land and Sites

The Lebanese Army Chief General Jean Qahwaji assured, "What happened lately in Odaissah was a result of the "Israeli" enemy's neglecting of the international forces' role in the blue line region's closed bases."

He added, "What the army did was in defense of its land and sites, it did not provoke the "Israeli" side which initiated with the violation, rejecting to solve the issue through the international forces which gave it 24 hours to end the problem, however did not get any response."

During his reception of the Editors and Counselors Union assembly in his office, General Qahwaji praised the journalists' cooperation with the military institution.

Army Chief pointed out that, "The Lebanese army is performing its duty in defending the country without differentiating between one region and another, or between sectarian or political affiliations. The army is rather turning directly towards the source of the problem to solve it in attempt to spread security and stability. Based on its responsibilities and duties, The army is deploying in the South and defending its land. It is also committed to abiding by the 1701 resolution through cooperating with the UN forces in Lebanon."

Qahwaji denied the existence of an American administrative decision to freeze its military aid program to the army. He clarified, "reports on this field where just ideas proposed by congressmen supportive to the Zionist Lobby. This is what U.S. Special Middle East Peace Envoy's assistant, Frederic Hof assured during his Tuesday visit."

General Qahwaji pointed out, "the damages caused by press leaks that soldiers were subjected to," and called on journalists to, "be accurate and objective in reporting, especially that some leaked information are offensive and imaginary."

Army Chief concluded by emphasizing, "the importance of uniting all political and military efforts in the frame of national work that strengthens the army's role in confronting challenges encircling the country."