Ghosn Warns Against Security Situation, Says 'Strife Looming on the Horizon'

Defense Minister Fayez Ghosn voiced concern on Thursday over some attempts to trigger strife in the country, warning against its “destructive consequences,” the state-run National News Agency said.

“The whole situation is not reassuring,” NNA quoted Ghosn as saying.

He spoke of “winds of strife that began to loom on the horizon.”

“Some people are either intentionally or unintentionally trying to trigger sedition without weighing the devastating effects on the country,” he added.

Ghosn's comments came during a meeting with the new Brazilian ambassador Alfonos Massot.

Discussions with him touched on the latest developments in the region and ways to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

“The situation demands exceptional efforts by all Lebanese to protect Lebanon,” said Ghosn, hailing the efforts of the Lebanese army in that regard.

“The army is exerting efforts far more than its capacity. Despite that, it will not hesitate to do its duty to the fullest,” he concluded.

Moreover, Ghosn met at his office in the ministry, with UNIFIL Commander Major General Paolo Serra. Talks highlighted the latest security situation in south Lebanon and the tasks carried out by the Lebanese army in cooperation with the U.N. peacekeepers.

The two men stressed the necessity to “enhance cooperation between the two sides and the need to preserve calm in the south in light of the accelerating and dangerous developments in the region.”