New President for Lebanon: Hope for peace and reforms!

Lebanon finally has a new head of state after a two-year vacancy. Chief of the General Staff Joseph Aoun was elected president and took the oath of office in parliament. When he arrived at the presidential palace in Beirut, a red carpet was rolled out and the streets were decorated with pictures of Aoun. Sweet treats were distributed in the capital, marking his election as a sign of hope for many of Lebanon's citizens.

After Michel Aoun's presidency ended in October 2022, the search for a new president was complicated by Hezbollah's influence and numerous failed election attempts. Attempts were made in parliament to elect a successor a total of twelve times. The war between Hezbollah and Israel in late 2024 significantly weakened the militia's power and contributed to Joseph Aoun now being able to assume the position of president.

International support and hopes for reform

International reactions to Aoun's election have been overwhelmingly positive. US President Joe Biden expressed his confidence in the new president and highlighted his role in a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel and the return of refugees. French President Emmanuel Macron also congratulated Aoun and sees him as an opportunity for necessary reforms in Lebanon. US special envoy Amos Hochstein also described Aoun's election as a significant step towards peace and stability.

The election of a new president is seen by the international community as a condition for financial aid that Lebanon urgently needs. Lebanon is suffering from a severe economic crisis caused by decades of corruption. Aoun also announced in his inaugural speech that only the state should have weapons, which is aimed directly against Hezbollah.

The Lebanese army is widely seen as a neutral institution, which could strengthen Aoun's role as president. Saudi Arabia and international donor countries also see Aoun's taking office as a possible path to the necessary reforms and urgently needed financial aid for Lebanon.