Lebanese President: No Retreat in Face of Terrorism

Beirut, MINA – Lebanese President Michel Aoun on Tuesday assured that Lebanon’s military and security institutions are “fully prepared” to confront all forms of terrorism.

“We do not retreat in the face of terrorism in all its aspects and organizations. The army and the security institutions are ready to confront it,” said Aoun during a ceremony marking the 72nd anniversary of Army Day, IINA News reported.

“We look forward to liberate a part of Lebanon that has been occupied by terrorism for years,” he added, in reference to the army’s battle on the outskirts of the border towns of al-Qaa and Ras Baalbek against militants from Daesh terrorist organization.

“You have succeeded at dismantling so many terror cells. We now look forward to our armed forces preparing to liberate what remains of the occupied territory and to reveal the fate of your kidnapped comrades,” he said.

“The dangers threatening the homeland are many. Past experience of the 1970s has taught us that the country cannot stay united if its army is paralyzed. Do not let criticism campaigns get into your morale,” President Aoun noted.

“Fulfilling the army’s vow costs us a lot of sacrifices but gives us the comfort of free conscience,” he said.(T/R04/RS5)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)