Lebanon to Elect President Joseph Aoun, Securing 81 of 86 Needed Votes, Amid Hezbollah's Weakening and Ceasefire Concerns

Jan 8, 2025, 07:00 PM

Lebanon is set to elect a new president on Thursday, ending a vacancy that has lasted over two years since Michel Aoun's term ended in October 2022. The Lebanese parliament will attempt to choose a successor in what will be the 13th effort to fill the position. Army Commander General Joseph Aoun has emerged as the leading candidate, supported by the US and Saudi Arabia, and is expected to secure the necessary 86 votes, having already secured 81 votes. The withdrawal of Hezbollah's candidate, Suleiman Franjieh, and his endorsement of Joseph Aoun have shifted the dynamics, with Hezbollah and its ally Amal appearing to reverse their stance, especially as Hezbollah has been weakened. The election comes at a critical time as Lebanon seeks to implement a ceasefire with Israel, which expires in three weeks, and to address the country's ongoing financial crisis and the aftermath of recent conflicts.