Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a crucial step in rejoining the Arab world and distancing from Iranian influence. With high expectations for aid, the new Lebanese government must demonstrate commitment to reforms. Saudi Arabia’s support is conditional on addressing corruption and disarming militias, particularly Hezbollah. Ultimately, successful governance in Lebanon relies on reestablishing diplomatic relations and securing financial backing from Saudi Arabia, amidst significant political challenges.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on Monday, signifying a reintegration of Lebanon into the Arab world. This visit parallels Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s choice of Saudi Arabia as his first foreign destination. Both countries previously fell under Iranian influence; now, Lebanon seeks to reaffirm its Arab identity.
Lebanon anticipates considerable support from Saudi Arabia, recalling the Kingdom’s previous role in aiding the country’s recovery after the civil war. Saudi Arabia provided essential political, diplomatic, and financial assistance until Iran’s influence grew, especially after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005. Hezbollah’s rise facilitated Iran’s increased power in Lebanon, leading to concerns regarding Iranian control.
Iran’s enduring influence did not foster stability or growth, instead resulting in weakened state institutions within Lebanon. As a consequence, chaos and a robust black market emerged. With Iran’s influence waning, Lebanese leaders now emphasize reform and a commitment to freeing Lebanon from external conflicts, particularly the Iranian axis.
In recent declarations, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and President Aoun have promised reforms and economic recovery, which include addressing the militia situation, specifically Hezbollah. Their strategy marked a clear effort to reestablish Lebanon’s sovereignty and independence, even pledging to address issues such as the Israeli occupation and reconstructing the southern region.
President Aoun’s forthcoming trip to Riyadh coincides with the recent ministerial declaration confirming Salam’s Cabinet. For effective governance, Aoun must arrive in Saudi Arabia with concrete plans and demands. Lebanon’s capacity to enact promised reforms hinges significantly on receiving substantial support from Saudi Arabia due to limited internal leverage against Israel.
Lebanon’s relations with its more powerful neighbors, including the U.S. and Europe, are largely faded; the return of stability in Syria reduces Lebanon’s leverage related to the Syrian refugee crisis. In the past, Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in negotiating peace and facilitating Israeli withdrawals from Lebanon, highlighting the importance of Riyadh’s backing for Lebanon’s recovery efforts.
Reflecting the changing dynamics, Saudi Arabia is no longer willing to provide unqualified financial aid to Lebanon. Such support will now be contingent upon implementing meaningful structural reforms, targeting not only Hezbollah but also the entrenched political elite. The government’s commitment to reform signifies a potential clash with established interests that could serve as a necessary catalyst for change.
Despite receiving parliamentary support, the Salam government may face resistance from the political establishment when addressing its privileges. However, entering this face-off could be vital for reviving Lebanon’s governance. Ultimately, Lebanon must seek Saudi Arabia’s endorsement to navigate these complex reforms successfully, ensuring that the new administration demonstrates its capability to implement change.
The visit of President Joseph Aoun to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment for Lebanon as it seeks to re-establish connections with the Arab world while distancing itself from Iranian influence. The new government has outlined ambitious reform agendas and must garner Saudi support to achieve stability and reconstruction. However, the conditional nature of Saudi aid underscores the need for substantive reforms within Lebanon’s political framework. As Lebanon embarks on this critical journey, cooperation with Saudi Arabia remains essential in overcoming historical challenges and ensuring a stable future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
