16/07/2026
Following the visit to South Lebanon ... Bishops, Anthony Charbel Tarabay, Peter Karam and Simon Faddoul meet with General Rodolphe Haykal, Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Bishop Tarabay wrote:
It was an important opportunity to discuss the vital role the Lebanese Armed Forces continue to play in Lebanon and the situation in South Lebanon following our recent humanitarian visit to the region.
During that visit, we witnessed firsthand the difficult conditions facing many communities that continue to endure isolation. Among the most urgent concerns raised was the absence of an operating hospital serving the region. The military hospital, which is critically important for the people of the South, is currently unable to function because essential medical equipment has not yet been installed. Engineers are urgently needed to complete the installation of the operating theatre so that the hospital can begin providing much-needed surgical and emergency care.
I conveyed that restoring this facility is a humanitarian necessity for the people of South Lebanon, who need access to essential medical services close to their homes. I also raised a number of other concerns affecting local communities and their ability to remain in their villages.
I thank General Haykal for receiving us and for listening to these concerns. I hope that practical action will follow so that the people of South Lebanon receive the support they urgently need and are able to live in safety and hope.
