Information
Lebanon’s parliament has elected army chief Joseph Aoun as the new president, ending a prolonged vacancy in the presidency and signalling a shift in the country’s political dynamics. The election, which reflects the diminished influence of Hezbollah following its setbacks in the 2022 war with Israel and the collapse of its ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria, also highlights the resurgence of Saudi influence in Lebanon. Aoun, a Maronite Christian as required by Lebanon’s sectarian system, secured 99 votes in a second parliamentary round, with backing from Hezbollah, the Amal Movement, and international pressure from France, Saudi Arabia, and the US. The election demonstrates a strong international consensus that Lebanon’s political and financial recovery requires stable leadership, with Saudi Arabia and Western nations tying financial aid to Aoun’s presidency.
Joseph Aoun’s election marks a critical step in restoring governance in a country grappling with an ongoing economic crisis and institutional paralysis since 2019. As commander of the U.S.-backed Lebanese army since 2017, Aoun has fostered strong ties with Washington, ensuring continued military aid to counter Hezbollah’s influence. His immediate challenges include nominating a Sunni Muslim prime minister to form a government, a task that often faces significant political wrangling. Aoun is also central to maintaining a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel brokered by the US and France, which requires the Lebanese army to manage southern border security. With Lebanon’s recovery hinging on international support, Aoun’s presidency is seen as pivotal in rebuilding trust in the country’s institutions and charting a path toward stability.
Source: Reuters, AFP
So what
This is a very positive sign for Lebanon and likely indicates that the situation in the country could improve. Although the ceasefire in the south appears to be at risk, the current political stability may have a positive impact on this situation. Nonetheless, challenges with Hezbollah remain. Despite Iran’s weakened state, it still holds significant power in Lebanon.
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