NNA - Defense Minister Fayez Ghosn on Thursday hailed the Lebanese army's sacrifices and declared solemnly that those who attack the army shall not go scot-free.



Ghosn spoke during his meeting with a delegation of martyr Pierre Beshaalani's relatives, and made clear that the Arsal case will not be concluded until criminals are arrested.



Ghosn convened later on with UNIFIL Commander Major-General Paolo Serra, over the situation in South Lebanon.



Both men agreed upon strengthening cooperation and safeguarding stability of South Lebanon, a statement issued by the Minister's press bureau said.



During their meeting, Minister Ghosn went over the Israeli violations to the Lebanese sovereignty, and stressed the need to pressure Israel to end these breaches.



Also, the Minister met with the new Brazilian ambassador to Lebanon, Alfonso Massot, with whom he tackled the regional developments and means to strengthen ties between the two countries.



Ghosn said during the meeting that the situation was not reassuring and affirmed that discord began to loom in the horizon.



"The situation requires extraordinary effort to protect Lebanon from discord," he said.



He stressed the army's willingness not to hesitate in fulfilling its duty.



"The army's wisdom is not a sign of weakness. This military institution preserves the public interest and maintains stability," he concluded.



=====================L.W.