Lebanese Parliament Expresses Confidence in New Government Led by Nawaf Salam

The Lebanese Parliament voted to support Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s new government with 95 out of 128 votes. U.S. officials congratulated Salam and emphasized support for Lebanon’s reforms. Although Salam seeks to position the armed forces as the sole protectors of Lebanon, the Hezbollah bloc in Parliament backed his appointments. Salam has a history of opposing Israel, and the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah is under threat due to violations.

On Wednesday, the Lebanese Parliament expressed its confidence in the new government, with 95 out of 128 members voting in favor of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Salam, designated in mid-January, is a former president of the International Court of Justice. Notably, his assertion that only the Lebanese armed forces should protect the country comes amidst support from Hezbollah’s bloc in Parliament for his cabinet, despite their lack of support during his appointment as prime minister.

U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce extended congratulations to 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,” underscoring America’s commitment to assisting Lebanon’s government with critical economic reforms. The U.S. will also continue supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces in maintaining peace.

Salam has a history of strong opposition to Israel, having condemned the nation 210 times during his 11 years as Lebanon’s ambassador to the United Nations. He has accused Israeli leadership of pursuing ethnic cleansing through terrorism and declared Israel an apartheid state. Moreover, the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, established on November 27, has faced multiple violations by Hezbollah.

In conclusion, the Lebanese Parliament has shown a measure of confidence in Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government amid complex political dynamics involving Hezbollah. The U.S. has pledged support for Lebanon’s government and military as they strive for stability and necessary reforms. Salam’s controversial history regarding Israel adds a significant layer to his leadership, while the ongoing ceasefire with Hezbollah remains tenuous.

Original Source: www.clevelandjewishnews.com