A new chapter unfolds in Lebanon's political landscape as the country's armed forces commander steps into a pivotal leadership role.
According to Axios, the Lebanese Parliament elected Gen. Joseph Aoun as president on Thursday, ending a two-year vacancy that had intensified the nation's economic and political turmoil.
The election marks a significant victory for the Biden administration, which had privately advocated for Aoun's candidacy. The breakthrough came after extensive diplomatic efforts and negotiations, particularly as Hezbollah's influence waned following recent conflicts with Israel.
The United States, France, and Saudi Arabia played crucial roles in facilitating the presidential election process.
While maintaining public neutrality, these nations privately backed Aoun's candidacy, viewing him as the most viable consensus candidate. The Biden administration's envoy, Amos Hochstein, conducted meetings in Beirut with key political figures and lawmakers to discuss the election.
President Biden's immediate response to Aoun's victory demonstrates strong U.S. support. Following their phone conversation, Biden issued a statement expressing confidence in Aoun's leadership:
President Aoun has my confidence. I believe strongly he is the right leader for this time.
The election process required careful maneuvering to secure the necessary votes. Aoun needed 86 votes to bypass regulations requiring military officers to wait two years before seeking office.
Initially falling short due to abstentions from the Shiite Amal party and Hezbollah-affiliated lawmakers, Aoun secured victory in a second round with 99 votes after addressing concerns about Shia representation.
The election outcome reflects significant shifts in regional power dynamics. U.S. officials attribute the end of the political deadlock to Hezbollah's weakened position following losses in the Israel conflict and the Assad regime's fall in Syria. This development forced Hezbollah to relinquish its veto power over presidential candidates.
In his first address as president-elect, Aoun outlined his vision for Lebanon's future. He emphasized state authority over weapons and committed to upholding international agreements:
Lebanon's foreign policy will be of positive neutrality and that the country will work to improve relations with the West and the East based on mutual respect and on maintaining Lebanon's sovereignty and independent decision.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar's congratulatory message suggests a potential for improved regional relations. The election may accelerate Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement, which enters its final three weeks.
Gen. Joseph Aoun's election as Lebanon's president represents a crucial turning point for the nation after two years without leadership. Following his victory in Parliament with 99 votes, Aoun faces the challenge of steering Lebanon through its economic crisis while balancing international relations.
His presidency promises increased Western support for Lebanon's government and armed forces, particularly as they implement the ceasefire agreement with Israel and work toward regional stability.
