BEIRUT: Defense Minister Samir Moqbel said Wednesday he would extend the tenure of Lebanese Army Intelligence chief Brig. Gen Edmond Fadel despite disapproval by some political leaders.

“I have informed those concerned of my decision to extend [Fadel’s] term to six months in line with the legitimate powers given to me,” Moqbel told local daily As-Safir.

Fadel’s term is due to expire March 20.

“We cannot leave the head of the most important security post vacant in the wake of failure to appoint [a replacement] due to the presidential vacuum,” he added.

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