Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia symbolizes Lebanon’s commitment to reconnecting with the Arab world and distancing itself from Iranian influence, particularly through Hezbollah. Lebanon requires substantial reforms and support from Saudi Arabia to stabilize and rebuild its economy, especially given Israel’s ongoing presence. This partnership hinges on mutual efforts to combat corruption and maintain security in the region.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia, marking his first foreign trip as an indication of Lebanon’s commitment to re-engagement in Arab affairs. Similarly, Syria’s new president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, chose Saudi Arabia as his initial destination, emphasizing a united Arab front in opposition to Iranian influence, which has marred Lebanon’s stability historically through groups such as Hezbollah.
During Lebanon’s civil war, Saudi Arabia provided essential political, diplomatic, and financial backing that helped the nation recover. However, following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005, Iran’s influence grew, largely facilitated by Hezbollah’s dominance. As a result, an Iranian official notably claimed Beirut was among four Arab capitals under Tehran’s control, indicating the perilous sway of Iran over Lebanon’s political landscape.
This Iranian dominance led to instability and chaos, undermining efforts for state-building and economic growth. Instead of fostering security, Iran’s presence amplified weaknesses within Lebanon, creating a climate where illicit economies thrived and undermining legitimate state functions, thereby declaring Lebanon a rogue state rife with drug production and money laundering.
Nevertheless, a shift is anticipated as Iranian influence diminishes. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government has committed to disengaging Lebanon from conflicts associated with the Iranian axis. This intention was articulated vividly when Aoun voiced to an Iranian delegation that Lebanon cannot serve as a battleground for foreign conflicts, signaling the country’s desire to return to its Arab identity and alliances.
Aoun and Salam pledged various reforms, including disarming militias like Hezbollah and liberating the country from Israeli occupation. The president’s impending visit to Saudi Arabia aims to solidify this promise; however, Lebanon must present concrete plans and demands, reinforcing the necessity for external support, particularly from Saudi Arabia, to fulfill these commitments.
Lebanon lacks the capability to compel Israel to withdraw independently, necessitating pressure from allied nations supportive of Lebanese stability. Historical precedents demonstrate that Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in coaxing Israel to withdraw during the 1982 conflict, showcasing its diplomatic significance for Lebanon.
In addition to political support, Lebanon requires security assurances to prevent Israeli incursions into its airspace. For sustainable stability, reconstruction is vital, particularly in southern Lebanon, where disarming Hezbollah is also crucial to integrate the Shiite community and ensure civil peace. Aoun will likely appeal for reconstruction funds during his visit to Riyadh.
However, it is vital to note that Saudi Arabia will not provide unconditional financial support; any aid will hinge on Lebanon’s implementation of substantive reforms. This necessitates confronting the longstanding political class that has governed Lebanon for decades. Taking decisive actions may provoke internal conflict, potentially necessary for the revival of the faltering state while requiring Saudi backing.
Ultimately, Lebanon’s new leadership must demonstrate its capacity to execute necessary reforms in order to gain international support, primarily from Saudi Arabia, lending credence to its requests.
In conclusion, Lebanon’s resurgence relies heavily on its relationship with Saudi Arabia, which historically played a crucial role in its stability. As Lebanon seeks to extricate itself from Iranian influence and restore its position within the Arab fold, it must undertake significant reforms and engage with Gulf states to garner essential support. Only through a concerted effort to dismantle Hezbollah’s influence and address internal corruption can Lebanon hope for a prosperous future, contingent on Saudi backing.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
