Lebanese President Michel Aoun’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia involved talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about regional affairs, calling for Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon. Both leaders asserted that only state institutions should hold arms, while also discussing plans to revive Lebanese imports and invite Saudi tourists back to Lebanon. Aoun indicated that Saudi might renew military support, signaling improving relations between the two nations.
On Tuesday, Lebanese President Michel Aoun concluded a significant visit to Saudi Arabia, engaging in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding regional circumstances and the need for Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Both leaders emphasized that the Lebanese state should be the sole entity permitted to possess arms, advocating for the support of the Lebanese army while denouncing Israeli military presence in Lebanon.
Historically, President Aoun has visited Saudi Arabia multiple times during his tenure as army commander, leading to hopes that his current role as president may facilitate the lifting of import bans on Lebanese goods and encourage Saudi citizens to travel to Lebanon. The meeting between Aoun and the Crown Prince was marked by discussions about reinforcing relations between the two nations and strategizing the enhancement of Lebanon’s economy amidst its pressing crisis.
The context of Aoun’s visit also includes Hezbollah’s recent setbacks in the conflict with Israel, which adversely affected the organization and its leadership. Following a ceasefire brokered by the United States in late November, Israel withdrew some military personnel from Lebanon, although it retains five posts that Lebanese officials claim violate agreed terms. Consequently, Lebanon reiterated calls for a complete Israeli withdrawal.
Aoun earlier indicated that Saudi Arabia might reactivate a $3 billion military aid package aimed at bolstering the Lebanese army, which had been previously suspended due to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran amidst the regional sectarian conflict. Furthermore, both nations agreed to explore solutions for resuming Lebanese imports and facilitating Saudi visits to Lebanon, along with acknowledging the necessity for economic reforms as mandated by the international community.
The discussions culminated with an invitation from Aoun for Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, which the Crown Prince accepted favorably. As Lebanon attempts to navigate a two-year leadership vacuum, with the election of Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, there is a collective commitment to enhancing regional relations and driving necessary reforms.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signifies a potential turning point in Lebanon-Saudi relations, emphasizing the need for Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and establishing Lebanon’s authority over arms. The discussions also foster prospects for economic recovery and increased cooperation, reflecting a commitment to address Lebanon’s crises and potentially re-engage Saudi support for the Lebanese military.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
