The Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), General Rodolph
Haykal attended the UK-hosted “Dragon Group” between 4-5 August,
accompanied by UK Defence Attaché to Lebanon Lt Col Charlie
, reinforcing the strong military
partnership between Lebanon and the UK.
The Dragon Group is a UK-led initiative launched in 2018 aboard
HMS Dragon to bring together Chiefs of Defence from across the
Middle Eastern region. Initially comprising nine nations, the
group has evolved to reflect the region's broader security
landscape. Lebanon's inclusion this year underscores its
strategic importance and longstanding partnership with the UK in
promoting regional stability.
The ninth meeting took place in Edinburgh, Scotland, to coincide
with the world-famous Military Tattoo.
During his visit, General Haykal met with the UK Chief of Defence
Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin and Chiefs of Defence from across
the Middle East. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral
cooperation, regional security, and continued UK support for the
LAF as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.
This visit underscores the UK's commitment to Lebanon's stability
and sovereignty. Since 2009, the UK has provided over £161
million in support to Lebanon's security institutions, including
£106 million in direct assistance to the LAF through training,
equipment, and infrastructure.
Charge D'Affaires Victoria Dunne said:
The visit of the Lebanese Army Commander General Haykal to the UK
reflects the strength of our defence partnership and the UK's
ongoing support for the Lebanese Armed Forces. We stand with
Lebanon in its efforts to maintain peace, security, and
sovereignty.
UK Defence Attaché Lt. Col. Charlie said:
The Lebanese Armed Forces plays a vital role in Lebanon's and the
region's stability. I am grateful for General Haykal's valuable
contribution to this meeting of the Dragon Group. We are proud to
work alongside the LAF supporting with training, kit and
equipment. Our bilateral military cooperation remains strong and
we reaffirm our commitment to their mission and capabilities.
