Lebanon’s parliament elected General Joseph Aoun, the army chief, as the new president on Thursday, filling the vacancy left since Michel Aoun’s term ended in October 2022. The election marks a significant shift in Lebanon’s political landscape, showcasing the reduced influence of Hezbollah after its defeat in the 2022 Israeli invasion of Lebanon and the loss of its ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in December.
Joseph Aoun’s election reflects a growing Saudi influence in Lebanon, where Riyadh’s power had been overshadowed by Hezbollah and Iran. The president, a position reserved for a Maronite Christian, has been vacant due to political deadlock. In the second round of voting, Joseph Aoun secured 99 votes, crossing the threshold needed after Hezbollah’s candidate, Suleiman Frangieh, withdrew in his favor.
Foreign diplomatic efforts, particularly by France, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, played a key role in shaping the outcome. They conveyed that international financial assistance, including from Saudi Arabia, was contingent on Aoun’s election. Aoun’s support also reflects Lebanon’s desire for stability and international backing, especially as the country continues to recover from a severe economic collapse.
His election is seen as a step towards restoring Lebanon’s government institutions, which have been crippled since the presidency’s vacancy. Aoun will also play a crucial role in maintaining the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, established by US and French mediation. The next step involves Aoun nominating a Sunni Muslim prime minister to form a new cabinet, a process that could take time due to political negotiations.
Having served as the Lebanese army commander since 2017, Aoun has received continued US support, strengthening his position in the country’s efforts to curb Hezbollah’s influence while maintaining the stability of state institutions.
