Lebanon Forms First Full Government in Over Two Years Amid Post-War Challenges

Lebanon’s New Government Takes Shape Amid Crisis

After more than two years of political paralysis, Lebanon has finally formed a full-fledged government. The announcement came from Lebanese President following the resignation of the former caretaker cabinet. The newly appointed Prime Minister, Nava Salam, a diplomat and former President of the International Court of Justice, now faces enormous challenges in leading a crisis-ridden nation.

In his first statement, Salam vowed to make his government one of reform and salvation, seeking to restore trust with the international community. His leadership comes at a crucial time—after the devastating Israel-Hezbollah war, which has left Lebanon struggling to rebuild its infrastructure and stabilize its fragile ceasefire.

Key Challenges for Lebanon’s New Leadership

With the formation of a fully functional government, Lebanon must now navigate several pressing issues:

1. Economic Reforms & International Aid:

   • Lebanon must implement key economic reforms to unlock billions of dollars from international donors.
   • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal remains under review, as the country seeks financial stability.

2. Post-War Reconstruction & Ceasefire Management:

   • The government must oversee the fragile ceasefire with Israel while ensuring that Hezbollah does not escalate tensions.
   • Large-scale infrastructure rebuilding efforts need to begin urgently.

3. Political Stability & Elections:

   • Lebanon must prepare for parliamentary elections next year, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

US Concerns Over Hezbollah’s Role in Lebanon’s New Government

Amid these challenges, US Deputy Special Envoy for West Asia, Morgan Orus, met with Prime Minister Nava Salam in Beirut on Friday. In a strongly worded statement, she warned against any Hezbollah presence in Lebanon’s new government, stating that the Iran-backed group was militarily defeated by Israel.

Her remarks sparked anger among Hezbollah supporters, who gathered near Beirut airport, waving Hezbollah’s yellow flags and burning tires in protest.

One protester remarked:

"We came to tell her that, according to the Lebanese Constitution, Israel is our common enemy. This insult, especially when she thanks our enemy from the podium of the presidency, is unacceptable."

A Fragile Future for Lebanon

Lebanon’s new government faces an uphill battle to stabilize the country, manage post-war reconstruction, and revive the economy. With international scrutiny over Hezbollah’s role and ongoing domestic unrest, Prime Minister Nava Salam’s leadership will be tested at every turn.

Will Lebanon’s new government succeed in bringing reform, or will sectarian divisions and geopolitical conflicts continue to hinder progress? The coming months will be crucial in shaping Lebanon’s future.

For more updates on West Asia’s evolving political landscape, stay tuned to our coverage.