Lebanon’s Army Chief Elected President, Signaling Weakened Hezbollah

Lebanon’s parliament elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as head of state on January 9, 2025, signaling a decline in the influence of Iran-backed Hezbollah, which suffered heavily in last year’s war with Israel.
In his speech to parliament, Aoun vowed to ensure that only the state holds the right to bear arms, a statement that drew applause while Hezbollah lawmakers remained silent.
Aoun promised to rebuild southern Lebanon and other areas devastated by Israel, and to protect the country from Israeli attacks. His election reflects a shift in Lebanon’s power balance, with Saudi Arabia’s influence growing as Hezbollah’s power wanes.
Israel and the U.S. congratulated Aoun, and France emphasized the need for the formation of a strong government to tackle Lebanon’s economic and political challenges. Aoun’s victory is seen as a step towards reviving Lebanon’s institutions, and his role in brokering a ceasefire with Hezbollah and Israel was highlighted as a key achievement.