Lebanon Elects New President Josef Aoun

Lebanon has elected a new president, Joseph Aoun, after a two-year vacancy, marking a significant diplomatic achievement for the Biden administration. Aoun, a former military chief and critic of Hezbollah, secured the presidency after intense negotiations that included guarantees from the US, France, and Saudi Arabia. His election is expected to bring stability to Lebanon amid its ongoing economic crisis and reassures Israel regarding security concerns. Meanwhile, in Cyprus, President Nikos Christodoulides held discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed to enhance regional security, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This visit was met with protests against Herzog from locals supporting Palestinian rights. The geopolitical dynamics are further complicated by Turkey's growing influence in the region, particularly regarding developments in Syria.