Lebanon’s new president vows to thwart any zionist assault, highligting reconstruction efforts in the South, Bekaa, and Dahiyeh regions

On Thursday, January 9, 2025, the Lebanese parliament assembled to cast their votes for a new president following a two-year period of vacancy. The session was presided over by House Speaker Nabih Berri. In this initial round of voting, the leading candidate, Army Commander Joseph Aoun, garnered just 71 of the 128 votes needed for election.

The morning session was temporarily suspended by Speaker Berri, who scheduled a follow-up meeting to convene in two hours. During the intermission, Mohammad Raad, leader of the Loyalty to Resistance bloc, and MP Ali Hasan Khalil, advisor to the House Speaker, engaged in a significant discussion with General Aoun. The meeting aimed to establish key priorities and objectives for the forthcoming political agenda.

In related developments, Member of Parliament Raad emphasized that the postponement of the vote was intended to demonstrate that Hezbollah and the Amal Movement are safeguarding the national agreement. He lauded the sacrifices made by the martyred Resistance fighters, which have allowed the parliament to assemble and elect a new president.

Members of the Hezbollah and Amal Movement parliamentary blocs cast their votes in favor of the Army Chief, boosting his electoral tally from 71 to 99 during the second voting session.

Following the announcement by Speaker Nabih Berri, General Joseph Aoun has been declared the 14th President of the Republic. Subsequently, President-elect Aoun proceeded to the parliament to fulfill the constitutional requirement of taking the oath of office and to deliver his inaugural address.

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In his inaugural address, President Aoun expressed deep appreciation for the honor bestowed upon him by being elected, describing it as “the greatest distinction” he could receive from the Lebanese parliament.

In a statement highlighting Lebanon’s storied past, Aoun underscored the country’s resilience and the unity of its people.

The newly inaugurated President of Lebanon emphasized the nation’s deep-rooted history, stating, “Lebanon is as ancient as history itself. Our strength derives from our courage and adaptability. Regardless of our differences, we come together in times of crisis. If one of us stumbles, we all do.”

Aoun recognized the necessity for reforms within Lebanon’s political framework.

The newly inaugurated leader of Lebanon has vowed to transform the nation’s political landscape, declaring the commencement of his term. In a statement, he promised to serve the interests of all Lebanese citizens, irrespective of their location, positioning himself as the country’s primary servant. Emphasizing his commitment to the national pact, he asserted his intention to exercise the full extent of presidential powers, aiming to act as a neutral mediator among the country’s institutions.

President Aoun emphasized the critical need for reforms in the legal and judicial sectors.

He stated that in order to construct a nation, adherence to the rule of law and the judiciary is essential for all individuals.

The President firmly asserted that judicial interference is prohibited and emphasized that no immunity will be granted to criminals or corrupt officials. He stated unequivocally that there is no tolerance for mafia activities, drug trafficking, or money laundering in Lebanon.

General Aoun emphasized that during his leadership, the armed forces will actively work to thwart any Israeli aggression toward Lebanon. He also stated that he plans to engage in discussions regarding a defense strategy aimed at eliminating the presence of Zionist occupation forces.

President Aoun pledged to spearhead the reconstruction efforts in South Lebanon, Bekaa, and Dahiyeh, areas affected by the recent Israeli conflict.

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President Aoun received congratulations from Speaker Berri, alongside members of parliament, the caretaker prime minister, and ministers, prior to departing for Baabda Palace to officially begin his duties.

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