Sat Feb 08 14:24:05 UTC 2025: ## Lebanon Forms New Government After Years of Crisis
**Beirut, Lebanon –** Lebanon has formed its first full-fledged government since 2022, ending a period of political instability. Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam’s 24-minister cabinet, equally divided between Christian and Muslim sects, was approved by President Joseph Aoun on February 8th, 2025. The formation comes less than a month after Salam’s appointment and amidst a multitude of challenges facing the nation.
The new government faces the monumental task of rebuilding Lebanon’s southern region, devastated by a recent war with Israel, and maintaining security along its border following a US-brokered ceasefire in November. Simultaneously, the country grapples with a crippling six-year economic crisis, impacting banks, electricity infrastructure, and leaving many in poverty.
Prime Minister Salam, a former International Court of Justice president, has pledged to reform Lebanon’s judiciary and economy, aiming to bring stability to the nation. While Hezbollah, a powerful Lebanese group, did not endorse Salam, negotiations took place regarding Shiite Muslim representation in the government, in accordance with Lebanon’s power-sharing system.
The new government represents a shift away from leaders closely aligned with Hezbollah. This move reflects Beirut’s desire to improve relations with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations, who have expressed concerns about Hezbollah’s growing influence. The election of President Aoun in early January, also a non-Hezbollah candidate, further underscores this shift. Both President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have voiced commitment to strengthening the state’s control over weaponry, a clear reference to Hezbollah’s arsenal.
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