Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, has declared that the country is in a state of war due to ongoing Israeli aggression. Speaking from the headquarters of the South Litani Sector of the Lebanese Army, Mikati described the current threats as a form of psychological warfare.
"Yes, we are in a state of war, with many civilians and non-civilians martyred and numerous villages destroyed due to Israeli aggression," he stated, according to the Lebanese website Al-Nashra.
Mikati reiterated the vital role of the Lebanese Army, calling it the backbone and shield of the nation. He praised the army's bravery and sacrifices, assuring that the political authority stands firmly by the military.
"I congratulate you on your courage and sacrifice. We, as political authority, stand by you in every sense of the word, and we will continue to do so," he said, acknowledging the difficulties faced by the military and expressing hope that they will soon pass.
He revealed that during the recent official vocational education exams, threats of bombing exam centers were received via social media. Investigations by the Directorate of Intelligence suggested that disgruntled students might be behind these threats.
Mikati emphasized that the same psychological warfare tactics are being used on a national level. However, he expressed confidence that Lebanon will overcome this phase and achieve lasting stability on its borders through the courage, bravery, and sacrifices of its people.
In a separate development, the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned citizens against traveling to Lebanon due to the ongoing military tensions in the region. Ambassador Sufian Qudah, the official spokesman for the ministry, stated that the recommendation is made out of a strong concern for the safety of Jordanian citizens.