Rudolf Haikal is a high-ranking officer serving as the Director of Operations in the Lebanese Army in the Lebanese Armed Forces, recognized as one of Lebanon’s most prominent military leaders. His name emerged as a leading candidate for the position of Commander of the Lebanese Army following the promotion of General Joseph Aoun to the presidency of Lebanon on January 9, 2025. Haikal has received strong domestic and international support due to his distinguished military career and extensive experience in leading military operations.^[1][2]

Brigadier General Rudolf Haikal has had a long and distinguished military career, holding various leadership positions that have provided him with broad expertise across multiple military domains. One of his key roles was Commander of the First Brigade of the Lebanese Army, a highly significant unit within the military. During his tenure, Haikal successfully led critical military operations, reinforcing the army's ability to maintain national security and stability. His leadership is noted for strong organizational and strategic planning skills, and he has worked extensively to enhance military training and improve operational readiness within his forces.^[1][3]

Haikal later assumed the role of Commander of the South Litani Sector, one of the most sensitive areas in Lebanon due to its proximity to the Israeli border and the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). In this position, Haikal played a pivotal role in coordinating military operations between the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL, ensuring security and stability in the region. He was instrumental in strengthening cooperation between the Lebanese military and international peacekeeping forces operating in Southern Lebanon.^[4][5]

During his command, Haikal conducted multiple field visits to international battalions stationed in the area, including Nepalese, Indonesian, Indian, and Spanish contingents. These visits allowed him to assess their operations and enhance collaboration, ensuring the success of peacekeeping missions in the region.

Following his successful leadership in the South Litani Sector, Rudolf Haikal was appointed Director of Operations for the Lebanese Army, placing him in charge of planning and overseeing military operations across Lebanon. In this role, he is responsible for coordinating efforts between various military units, ensuring operational efficiency and national security.

After the election of General Joseph Aoun as President of Lebanon, Brigadier General Rudolf Haikal emerged as the strongest candidate for the position of Commander of the Lebanese Army. He was widely regarded as the most qualified candidate due to his extensive experience and expertise in leading military operations in sensitive regions.

Three candidates competed for the role:

• Rudolf Haikal (Director of Operations)
• Brigadier General Johnny Akl (Commander of the Logistics Brigade)
• Brigadier General Tony Chdid (Commander of the Military Police)

Following the formation of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government and its vote of confidence in Parliament, the government held its first session on March 6, 2025. During this session, an agreement was reached to appoint Rudolf Haikal as the new Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces.^[6][7]

• Lebanese Armed Forces
• Joseph Aoun