The Lebanese Parliament voted in confidence for Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s new government, with 95 out of 128 votes in favor. Salam, emphasizing national defense by the armed forces, received support from Hezbollah for his cabinet. The U.S. State Department recognized this development, signaling America’s partnership in economic reforms. Salam’s history as a UN ambassador highlights his critical stance on Israel amidst ongoing regional tensions.
On Wednesday, the Lebanese Parliament demonstrated confidence in its new government, led by Nawaf Salam, with 95 out of 128 parliamentarians voting in favor. Salam, who was designated as prime minister in mid-January and previously served as president of the International Court of Justice, emphasized that only the Lebanese armed forces should be responsible for the nation’s defense. Notably, the Hezbollah bloc in Parliament backed his cabinet appointments despite previously withholding support for his prime ministership.
In response to the parliamentary vote, Tammy Bruce, spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department, conveyed congratulations to Prime Minister Salam and President Joseph Aoun. She remarked, “For too long, the Lebanese people were denied a governing body that could unite the country and rebuild Lebanese state institutions.” Bruce affirmed America’s commitment to partnering with the new government on urgent economic reforms and continued support for the Lebanese Armed Forces amid the cessation of hostilities.
During his prior role as the Lebanese ambassador to the United Nations, Prime Minister Salam was noted for condemning Israel 210 times over 11 years. He has frequently charged the “supreme Zionist leadership” with committing acts of ethnic cleansing through “terrorism and organized massacres,” and has labeled Israel as an “apartheid” state. Meanwhile, conflicts remain persistent, as Hezbollah has repeatedly violated the ceasefire agreement established with Israel on November 27.
The Lebanese Parliament’s backing of Nawaf Salam’s government marks a significant step towards political stability in Lebanon, despite the complexities surrounding Hezbollah’s support and past tensions with Israel. The United States has expressed its commitment to assist this new administration in implementing essential economic reforms and supporting national defense efforts. Salam’s history and statements indicate ongoing challenges in regional relations and governance.
Original Source: www.clevelandjewishnews.com
