Mon Jan 13 11:35:00 UTC 2025: ## Lebanon’s New President Begins Consultations for Prime Minister Designation

**BEIRUT, Lebanon –** Lebanon’s newly elected President, General Joseph Aoun, initiated consultations on Monday to appoint a new prime minister. The race is reportedly tight between the incumbent, Najib Mikati, and Nawaf Salam, the president of the International Court of Justice. Aoun, who enjoys the backing of the United States and Saudi Arabia, must select the candidate with the most parliamentary support among the 128 lawmakers. The decision is expected later today.

The prime minister must be a Sunni Muslim, according to Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing system. Mikati, a billionaire businessman with extensive experience as prime minister, is expected to retain the support of Hezbollah and its allies. Salam, a former UN ambassador, is backed by anti-Hezbollah factions, including the Lebanese Forces. The votes of the Free Patriotic Movement and the Progressive Socialist Party will likely be decisive.

Aoun’s election, strongly encouraged by Saudi Arabia, marks a resurgence of Saudi influence in Lebanon following the recent war with Israel and the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. While Saudi Arabia has not publicly endorsed a candidate for prime minister, the U.S. has welcomed Aoun’s election, viewing it as a step towards peace and stability.

The formation of a new government is crucial for Lebanon, which has been without a fully functioning cabinet for over two years. The new administration will face the challenges of rebuilding areas damaged by Israeli airstrikes, implementing economic reforms, and addressing the country’s ongoing financial crisis. Aoun’s role as former army commander, notably his involvement in a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, is seen as beneficial in navigating these complex issues.

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