Lebanon's parliament has elected Army Commander General Joseph Aoun as president, ending a vacancy that has lasted since 2022. Aoun's victory follows a second round of voting after initial setbacks.
Lebanon’s parliament has officially elected Army Commander General Joseph Aoun as the country’s new president, filling the vacant position that has been open since 2022.
Aoun, backed by the U.S., was elected after a first round of voting saw him secure 71 votes, falling short of the required 86. Following consultations, the second round resulted in sufficient support for Aoun to secure the presidency.
Aoun’s election marks a significant political shift in Lebanon, as it reflects a waning influence of Hezbollah, especially following the setbacks it faced after its recent conflict with Israel.
Read next
13:14
Financial Oversight
Lebanon’s new central bank governor, Karim Souaid, has outlined plans to bolster financial oversight and restore economic stability, including restructuring public debt and addressing long-standing obligations to depositors.
11:46
Hamas commander
The Israeli military said on Friday it had killed Hassan Farhat, a commander of Palestinian militant group Hamas, in the Sidon region of southern Lebanon.
21:41
The U.S. has pressured Lebanon to act against Hezbollah, urging the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to enforce a ceasefire. The LAF, caught between U.S. demands and Hezbollah’s influence, risks losing vital U.S. support if it fails to act.
18:10
Contract Stalled
Negotiations between Italy and Elon Musk's Starlink have stalled over geopolitical tensions, as the government seeks secure communications for officials. Opposition politicians have raised concerns over working with a company linked to U.S. President Donald Trump.
12:31
Rising Tensions
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has issued a stern warning about the possibility of renewed military operations in the south, following Israeli airstrikes in retaliation for a cross-border rocket launch.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment