What it is about

The election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s new president marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape. After an extended period of political standstill, the Lebanese Parliament, reflecting an anti-Hezbollah sentiment, elected Aoun, a Maronite Christian and former army commander.

Why it matters

Aoun’s victory represents more than just a political win; it highlights the declining influence of Hezbollah, a group historically powerful within Lebanon but increasingly isolated regionally. This election is significant for U.S.-Israel relations, paving the way for a strengthened alliance aimed at reducing Hezbollah’s grip on Lebanon.

The big picture

Despite Hezbollah’s efforts to hinder Aoun’s rise, they have capitulated, voting in favor of his presidency, indicating their weakened state and diminished leverage within Lebanon. Experts suggest Hezbollah is increasingly on the back foot, impacted not only by internal political shifts but also regional dynamics such as Syria’s political changes.

What’s next

As president, Aoun aims to assert Lebanon’s sovereignty, focusing on securing state control over the nation’s military armaments. His stance against disarmament of rogue factions aligns with the interests of international allies like the U.S. and Israel, facilitating a potential boost in economic and political support for Lebanon.

Go deeper

The election sets a stage for Lebanon to align closer with Western and regional allies. Israel perceives Aoun’s ascendancy as an opportunity to uphold U.N. Resolution 1701 and create a buffer against Hezbollah’s military capabilities. Observers speculate that Aoun’s presidency could indeed usher in a new era of strategic cooperation.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.