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 Smith, 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 Smith 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.
