After a prolonged period of political instability in Lebanon, the parliament has elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as the country’s new president, marking a milestone after 12 failed elections in the past two years.

Related:
Israel Violates more than 1000 times the Cease-fire Agreements in Lebanon

Aoun received 99 votes in the second round of elections, after failing to reach the 86 votes needed for him to be elected president in the first round.

Aoun’s election required a constitutional amendment, as the Lebanese Constitution prohibits a military man from holding the presidency. His ascension to office comes in a context of power vacuum since the end of Michael Aoun’s mandate in 2022, during which the political blocs failed to agree on a candidate.

The election session took place amid regional tensions and the imminent end of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. Despite repeated violations by the Israeli forces-with more than 1,000 documented incidents-there are only 17 days left before the agreed truce expires.

This conflict has left a devastating toll, with approximately 3,300 people killed and $8.5 billion in property damage.

Lebanon faces enormous economic challenges after several years of financial crisis. In this context, Joseph Aoun is expected to submit a proposal for his cabinet in the coming days, which will be crucial in addressing both the political crisis and the economic difficulties facing the country.

The international community and the Lebanese people will be attentive to how their leadership can influence Lebanon’s stability and recovery.

EN ESTA NOTA: