Lebanon’s parliament has elected army chief Joseph Aoun as the new president, ending a protracted political stalemate that lasted for over a year. His election came after 12 failed attempts and significant backing from the US and Saudi Arabia, marking a shift in the country’s political dynamics, especially following conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel.
In a significant political development, Lebanon’s parliament has elected army chief Joseph Aoun as the country’s next president, which effectively concludes a prolonged political impasse that has persisted for several years. His election followed extensive diplomatic efforts by the United States and Saudi Arabia to consolidate support for Aoun, who enjoys favorable relations with both nations. The presidential vacancy arose after the term of former President Michel Aoun, who had associations with Iran-aligned Hezbollah, expired in October 2022. Under Lebanon’s complex confessional power-sharing system, the presidency is typically accessible only to a Maronite Christian.
Attempts to elect a new president had been unsuccessful prior to this week, with twelve unsuccessful ballots over the last two years. The political landscape was further complicated by recent hostilities involving Hezbollah and Israel, which were addressed by a US-brokered ceasefire agreement. The Lebanese army played a pivotal role in the ceasefire’s implementation but did not engage directly in the conflict. This latest election reflects shifting alliances and the continued influence of international actors in Lebanese affairs.
Lebanon’s political system is characterized by a power-sharing arrangement among various religious sects, often complicating governance and leading to protracted stalemates. The electoral process for the presidency is heavily influenced by external powers, particularly the US and Iran, each backing different factions. The Iranian-backed Hezbollah has historically contested the US-aligned political establishment in Lebanon, contributing to a divide that has made obtaining a consensus challenging. Moreover, recent regional conflicts and shifts, including the fallout from the Israeli-Hezbollah war, have further shaped the political landscape, emphasizing the need for a stable leadership to address ongoing crises.
The election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s president marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s political history, effectively ending a long-standing vacuum in leadership. This transition not only reflects the successful diplomatic efforts of the US and Saudi Arabia but also underscores the enduring sectarian complexities that define Lebanese politics. The effectiveness of Aoun’s leadership will be closely scrutinized as Lebanon confronts significant challenges ahead, including managing regional tensions and internal divisions.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
