Beirut: Lebanese Army Commander General Rodolph Haykal marked the army's 81st anniversary by paying tribute to fallen soldiers, wounded personnel, veterans and serving troops, praising their sacrifice, discipline and loyalty. In his Order of the Day, Haykal said the army continued to carry out wide-ranging duties despite limited resources and difficult conditions, including securing land and maritime borders, combating terrorism, organised crime, drug trafficking and smuggling, and completing its deployment in southern Lebanon under existing arrangements.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, he said the army remained ready to deploy in all occupied areas vacated by Israeli forces and was working to ensure the safe return of residents to southern villages and towns, while accusing Israel of continued attacks and violations aimed at obstructing those efforts.

Haykal called for stronger military capabilities and greater international support, describing assistance to the army as an investment in Lebanon's stability and regional security. He also pledged to protect soldiers' rights and seek improved conditions for them and their families.

He said the army would remain a guarantor of security and civil peace and would not allow instability or sectarian strife to threaten the country.