Qahwaji Says Ras Baalbek Operation 'Pre-emptive Strike'
Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji revealed on Friday that the army's operation along Lebanon's eastern border the day before was a pre-emtive strike, which allowed the military to advance in the area and control positions held by gunmen.
He considered in comments published in local dailies that Thursday's operation was an “important milestone to fortify Lebanon's border.”
Qahwaji hailed soldiers deployed along the border, in particular the units that participated in operation in the northeastern villages of Ras Baalbek and Arsal.
“It is a new accomplishment carried out by our brave troops,” the high-ranking military official added.
He pointed out that the army “proved that it's capable of achieving victories and engage in battles that most of the militaries around the world are incapable of engaging in.”
Qahwaji stressed that the Lebanese military is ready for all options, saying: “We will not allow the takfiri terrorists to defeat us... It's an open battle.”
The Army chief remarked that the “military is the sole guarantee for Lebanon's stability and averting danger,” reiterating that the country will not become a terrorist hub.
The Lebanese army seized on Thursday two hilltop positions on the outskirts of Ras Baalbek.
The army command said in a communique that the operation was in line with efforts to secure villages near the eastern border with neighboring Syria.
Three soldiers were wounded in the operation, during which militant positions were shelled with artillery and heavy weaponry, it added.
The statement did not name the militants, but most are believed to be from the Islamic State group. They and the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front have been holding around 20 Lebanese soldiers and policemen hostage since August.
The army frequently clashes with the militants in their hideouts near the Syria border.
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