Joseph Aoun Elected as Lebanon's President

Lebanon has ended a two-year presidential vacancy with the election of army chief Joseph Aoun, achieving a significant parliamentary victory after 12 failed attempts. Aoun secured the presidency in a second round of voting, receiving 99 votes out of 128. His election marks a shift toward Western influence, as Hezbollah's power wanes following a conflict with Israel and the withdrawal of their preferred candidate, Suleiman Frangieh. International leaders, including the US ambassador and Israeli foreign minister, have expressed optimism for stability and support for Lebanon's recovery. Aoun has promised to address Lebanon's economic crisis and navigate the delicate ceasefire with Israel. This election is viewed as a pivotal moment for Lebanon to stabilize its state institutions and pursue comprehensive reforms.