Nawaf Salam has been appointed as Lebanon’s new prime minister, receiving broad parliamentary support amid political tension, particularly regarding Hezbollah’s diminished influence. Salam, an accomplished legal scholar and diplomat, must now form a cabinet and tackle Lebanon’s pressing crises, including its ongoing economic depression and calls for governmental reform.
Nawaf Salam, currently the president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, has been appointed as Lebanon’s new prime minister. This nomination, which garnered the support of two-thirds of Lebanon’s 128-member parliament, comes amidst significant political tension and a sectarian power-sharing system that designated the prime minister position for a Sunni Muslim. Salam, aged 71, is expected to return to Lebanon shortly to undertake his new role.
The appointment of Nawaf Salam is perceived as a setback for Hezbollah, the Iran-backed political and military group, which had aimed to keep Najib Mikati as prime minister but ultimately refrained from nominating any candidate. Following their recent conflict with Israel, Hezbollah’s influence has notably diminished. Mohammed Raad, a senior lawmaker for Hezbollah, expressed dissatisfaction with the political dynamics, suggesting that the group was extending support only to be sidelined within this new government framework.
Salam, hailing from a prominent Sunni family in Beirut with a notable political legacy, has extensive academic credentials, including double doctorates and a Master’s in Law from Harvard. His background includes serving as Lebanon’s permanent representative to the United Nations prior to his election as president of the ICJ, where he commenced his tenure amid critical cases, including one involving allegations against Israel regarding Palestinian treatment.
Now tasked with establishing a new cabinet capable of winning a confidence vote from a fractured parliament, Salam’s appointment marks a potential turning point for Lebanon. This follows the presidential election of Joseph Aoun, which was supported by a coalition of major political factions including Hezbollah, who nonetheless await to see the implications of these changes in the context of state authority and governmental reforms.
President Aoun has indicated a commitment to restoring state authority over armed groups, particularly Hezbollah, emphasizing the necessity for reforms targeting the country’s ongoing economic and political crises, including severe economic decline and the aftermath of the 2020 Beirut port explosion.
Given these evolving political circumstances, Nawaf Salam’s leadership may play a crucial role in navigating Lebanon through its current challenges, leaning on both domestic and international support to foster a more stable governance structure and initiate essential reforms.
The political landscape in Lebanon is characterized by a sectarian power-sharing system that allocates government positions based on religious affiliation. This system has often led to blockades in leadership appointments and governmental progress, especially amidst crises, including economic turmoil and the repercussions of conflicts with Israel. Nawaf Salam’s appointment as prime minister comes at a critical time, as Lebanon seeks stability following years of strife and political deadlocks. His previous experience in international law and diplomacy may provide valuable insights into handling local governance challenges, particularly with the complex role of Hezbollah in Lebanese politics.
Nawaf Salam’s selection as Lebanon’s prime minister represents a pivotal moment for the country’s governance amid significant political fragmentation. His extensive legal background and leadership at the ICJ position him as a potential reformist leader. However, his success will hinge upon his ability to form a cabinet capable of gaining parliamentary confidence and addressing the considerable economic, political, and social challenges facing Lebanon.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
