Lebanon’s parliament has elected army chief General Joseph Aoun as the country’s president, filling the post that had been vacant since October 2022. The election marks a significant shift in Lebanon’s power dynamics, reducing the influence of the Iran-backed Hezbollah group while highlighting the revival of Saudi Arabia’s sway in the region.
Aoun, 60, who enjoys US backing, secured 99 votes in the second round of parliamentary voting, surpassing the 86 votes needed. His victory came after Hezbollah and its Shi’ite ally, the Amal Movement, lent their support. Hezbollah’s earlier candidate, Suleiman Frangieh, withdrew from the race a day before the vote, paving the way for Aoun’s ascent.
In his acceptance speech, Aoun vowed to uphold state sovereignty by ensuring the state’s exclusive right to bear arms. This statement, met with resounding applause, appeared to challenge Hezbollah, which maintains its own military forces.
“Today, a new phase in the history of Lebanon begins,” Aoun declared, promising to rebuild areas devastated by conflict and to safeguard Lebanon from further Israeli aggression.
The election outcome underscores changing power dynamics in Lebanon and the Middle East. Hezbollah, significantly weakened after its costly war with Israel, now faces diminishing influence. Its key regional ally, Syria’s Bashar al-Assad, was toppled in December, further eroding its support base. In contrast, Saudi Arabia has reasserted its role in Lebanese politics after years of diminished influence.
French, Saudi, and US envoys played a pivotal role in Aoun’s election, reportedly pressuring Hezbollah ally and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri to facilitate the process. A source close to the Saudi royal court confirmed that international financial aid, including Saudi assistance, hinged on resolving the leadership void.
Christian lawmaker Michel Mouawad commented, “There is a very clear message from the international community that they are ready to support Lebanon, but that needs a president and a government.”
Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended their congratulations to Aoun. US Ambassador Lisa Johnson, present at the parliamentary session, expressed her approval, saying she was “very happy” with the result.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also reacted positively, expressing hopes for stability and improved neighbourly relations.
Lebanon’s presidency, reserved for a Maronite Christian under the country’s sectarian power-sharing system, has long been a contentious post, with divided factions often unable to reach consensus.
Aoun’s election brings an end to a months-long political deadlock and raises hopes for international assistance to address Lebanon’s severe economic and political crises.
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