Lebanon's President Aoun Consults MPs for Prime Minister

Lebanon's newly elected President Joseph Aoun has initiated consultations with parliament members to designate a new prime minister, a role critical for navigating the country's economic crisis and the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah and Israel. The leading candidates for the position include incumbent Najib Mikati and Nawaf Salam, with Mikati reportedly having support from Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement. Aoun's election ended a two-and-a-half-year power vacuum, amid significant foreign pressure, particularly from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. The political landscape remains fragmented, and the process of forming a government may extend for months due to deep-seated divisions. Furthermore, Aoun has expressed his intent to establish state control over arms in Lebanon, a key issue given the recent ceasefire with Israel. This political development comes on the heels of Mikati's visit to Syria for discussions with the new government there, highlighting regional dynamics.