Lebanon’s parliament is set to elect a president on Thursday, with Joseph Aoun as the strongest contender. The election could influence Hezbollah’s next steps, particularly regarding disarmament in southern Lebanon.
A 60-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon is nearing its expiration date. The Lebanese government has failed to uphold its commitments under the agreement. Israel has warned that it will prolong its presence in southern Lebanon by at least a month, until February 26, despite initial plans for the Israel Defense Forces to leave the area.
The outcome of the presidential election could determine whether Aoun, who leads Hezbollah, oversees disarmament efforts or if the situation remains unchanged. The prospects of a prolonged Israeli presence in southern Lebanon have significant implications for regional stability and relationships between Israel, Lebanon, and the US.
Source: https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-01-08/ty-article/.premium/lebanons-election-would-a-victory-of-the-army-chief-present-real-threat-to-hezbollah/00000194-40fe-d83d-adfe-46ff164f0000