The Lebanese Parliament granted confidence to Nawaf Salam’s government with 95 votes in favor. U.S. State Department praised the new administration and emphasized support for critical reforms. Salam, a former UN ambassador, has a history of condemning Israel. The region faces ongoing challenges with Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire agreement.
The Lebanese Parliament granted confidence to the newly formed government on Wednesday, with 95 out of 128 parliamentarians endorsing the administration led by Nawaf Salam, appointed in mid-January. Despite Salam’s assertion that the Lebanese armed forces should be the sole entity responsible for the country’s defense, the Hezbollah bloc in Parliament supported his cabinet, although it did not endorse his position as Prime Minister.
Tammy Bruce, the spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, extended her congratulations to both Prime Minister Salam and President Joseph Aoun. “For too long, the Lebanese people were denied a governing body that could unite the country and rebuild Lebanese state institutions,” she stated, highlighting America’s commitment to support Lebanon as it implements critical economic reforms and strengthens its armed forces.
Nawaf Salam, during his prior role as Lebanon’s ambassador to the United Nations, notably condemned Israel on 210 occasions within an eleven-year period, accusing its leadership of engaging in apartheid and ethnic cleansing practices. Following the ceasefire agreement established on November 27 with Hezbollah, violations by the organization have been reported, complicating the stability in the region.
The Lebanese Parliament’s vote of confidence in Nawaf Salam’s government marks a significant moment for Lebanon amid ongoing regional tensions and past accusations against Israel. U.S. support for the new government is aimed at fostering unity and reform in Lebanon. However, challenges remain due to Hezbollah’s involvement and repeated violations of ceasefire agreements.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
