Prime Minister Nawaf Salam Pledges Economic Reforms and Stability
The Lebanese Presidency announced today, Saturday, the formation of a new government consisting of 24 ministers, headed by Nawaf Salam.
This development follows weeks of intensive consultations amid shifts in the political landscape after Hezbollah’s weakening in the aftermath of a devastating war with Israel.
In an official statement, the presidency declared: “President Michel Aoun signed a decree accepting the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s government, as well as a decree appointing Nawaf Salam as the new Prime Minister. Additionally, a decree was signed jointly by the president and the prime minister-designated to form the government of 24 ministers.”
Salam’s Vision for Reform and Stability
In his first speech as Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam pledged that the newly formed government will focus on implementing economic reforms, restoring trust between citizens and the state, and facilitating Lebanon’s access to reconstruction funds and international investments following last year’s war.
Salam emphasized the importance of adhering to United Nations Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel. He stated, “Now that we have announced the government, which I hope will be a government of reform and salvation… I would like to emphasize the following points. First, reform is the only path to real salvation.”
He added, “This government will seek to restore confidence between citizens and the state, between Lebanon and its Arab neighbors, and between Lebanon and the international community. Furthermore, we will work to ensure security and stability in Lebanon by completing the implementation of Resolution 1701 and the ceasefire agreement.”
Challenges in Forming the Government
The government formation follows more than three weeks of negotiations with Lebanon’s political factions, which distribute government positions based on a sectarian quota system. One of the main points of contention was the selection of Shiite ministers, typically nominated by Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement.
Before the announcement, a tripartite meeting was held at the presidential palace, bringing together President Michel Aoun, Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
Major Challenges Ahead
The newly formed government faces a host of pressing challenges, including the reconstruction of war-torn areas and the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement that halted hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Resolution 1701 requires Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon and mandates that Hezbollah move away from the border while disarming all non-state armed groups, limiting military authority to legitimate state forces.
However, the agreement has faced delays. Israel initially had until January 26 to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon but extended its presence, citing Lebanon’s failure to fully implement the agreement. Lebanon, in turn, accused Israel of “procrastination.”
On January 27, the Lebanese government announced an extension of the ceasefire implementation until February 18 after mediation by the United States. The agreement is being overseen by a committee led by the United States and France.
The road ahead for the Salam government will require navigating complex domestic and international challenges while striving to rebuild Lebanon’s economy and infrastructure, foster regional stability, and strengthen trust with its people and the global community.
