Iskandar Ghanem

Iskandar Ghanem (; 1911 – 4 February 2005) was a Lebanese army general who was the commander-in-chief of the Lebanese army in the period from 1971 to 1975. He was close to Suleiman Frangieh and held the post during his presidency.

Early life and education Ghanem was born in Saghbine, West Bekaa, in 1911 Later he was dismissed from the Lebanese army, but he rejoined the army on 24 July 1971 when he was promoted to the rank of general. Immediately after his promotion Ghanem was appointed commander-in-chief of the army. Ghanem replaced Jean Njeim in the post who died in a helicopter crash on 24 July 1971.

During his term Ghanem directly report to the President Suleiman Frangieh, although he should have reported to the Prime Minister. He was succeeded by Hanna Said in the post in September 1975.

Following the end of his tenure Ghanem joined the Kataeb Party in 1976.

Controversy The Mossad agents attacked the headquarters of Palestinians in Lebanon on 10 April 1973 and killed three Palestinians who were the leaders of the Black September Organization. Following the incident the Lebanese Prime Minister Saeb Salam argued that Ghanem did not attempt to resist the Israeli attack disobeying the orders.

Therefore, Salam requested the dismissal of Iskandar Ghanem, and the Sunni community also called for his removal from the post.

The Muslim leaders continued their opposition to Ghanem. Ghanem was asked to not perform his role as army commander on 1 July, and Colonel Jules Bustante temporarily replaced him in the post. Joseph A. Kéchichian cites the latter as one of the factors led to the disintegration of the Lebanese Army.

Iskandar Ghanem died on 4 February 2005. A funeral ceremony was held for him on 7 February in the Maronite Cathedral of Saint George in Beirut.

Awards Ghanem was the recipient of the Order of the Cedar. He was first awarded the rank of commander and then the rank of grand officer.