Strict Security Measures near Defense Ministry HQ amid Reports of 'Terrorist Attacks'

Security measures were boosted near the Defense Ministry in Yarze following reports indicated that extremist terrorist groups have an intention to target military headquarters across Lebanon, including the ministry.

According to al-Joumhouria newspaper published on Saturday, the strict security measures were fortified after security agencies obtained information that high-ranking military officers will be targeted by terrorist acts.

The daily said that the security measures included the thorough inspection of passers-by and checking their identities.

On Friday, Army Commander General Jean Qahwaji announced that the army will “tighten the noose” on suspicious groups that might pose a threat to the country's security, noting that the military will not leave any Lebanese area “under the mercy of security chaos.”

The army chief underlined that the military “will not renounce its right to impose stability and prevent autonomous security.”

Explosions in Lebanon have created a climate of fear in the country, with residents increasingly nervous about unfamiliar cars and certain neighborhoods.

A series of deadly bombings have targeted Shiite districts of Beirut's southern suburbs and the eastern Bekaa valley in recent months. Hizbullah has a strong presence in the districts, and the attacks are believed to be in retaliation for the Shiite group's armed intervention in Syria in support of President Bashar Assad against the majority Sunni rebels seeking to topple him.