Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s Foreign Minister, congratulated Lebanon on electing Joseph Aoun as President, hoping for increased stability and good relations. Meanwhile, Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi advised ministers to avoid discussing the election, highlighting its internal nature. Aoun’s election follows a protracted political crisis in Lebanon, which has hindered governance.
On January 9, 2025, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed his support and congratulations following the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s new president. In a message shared on Twitter, Sa’ar stated, “I congratulate Lebanon on electing a new president after a prolonged political crisis. I hope that this choice will contribute toward stability, a better future for Lebanon, and its people, and to good neighborly relations.” This comment was made amidst a backdrop of a lengthy political impasse in Lebanon, which had left the presidency vacant for an extended period.
In contrast to Sa’ar’s public congratulatory remarks, Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi advised Israeli ministers to remain silent about the Lebanese elections. According to KAN News, Hanegbi instructed that, “The election of the president in Lebanon is an internal event and should not be addressed.” This guidance indicates a cautious approach by Israeli officials concerning Lebanon’s political developments, emphasizing an awareness of the complexities involved.
The election of Joseph Aoun, who previously served as the army chief, has been welcomed by observers as a significant step towards restoring governance in Lebanon. His election follows a series of political crises that have severely impacted the nation’s stability and economic recovery. With tensions in the region, the hope for improved relations between Lebanon and its neighbors has been underscored by Sa’ar’s remarks.
Lebanon has faced considerable political strife characterized by divisions and a lack of consensus among its governing factions. The presidency has remained unoccupied for a significant duration, complicating Lebanon’s political landscape and exacerbating its economic challenges. The election of Joseph Aoun signifies a potential turning point, as Lebanon seeks to establish stability and re-engage with neighboring countries, particularly Israel, within the context of careful diplomatic relations.
The election of Joseph Aoun as president represents a crucial moment for Lebanon as the country navigates through a period of instability. Gideon Sa’ar’s acknowledgment reflects Israel’s cautious optimism towards fostering better relations in the region while simultaneously respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty. The advice from Israeli officials to refrain from commenting on the election highlights the delicate nature of inter-state relations in this context.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
