POLICY Statement

January 15, 2025: ATFL Congratulates Lebanon on the Designation of Its New Prime Minister

January 15, 2025

The American Task Force on Lebanon congratulates Lebanon on the nomination of Judge Nawaf Salam as prime minister on the heels of President Joseph Aoun’s landmark election that ended two years of gridlock.

President’s Aoun’s election and Salam’s designation usher in a new era that signals the possibility of much-needed change and reform, stabilizes the country, and revives state institutions. The state, under this administration, faces critical tasks, starting with reclaiming its full monopoly over arms and control over the entirety of the territory in accordance with the recent ceasefire agreement that ended hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. Reconstruction will also need to be prioritized, as will the relaunch of long-stalled reforms to revive the economy and address the root causes of the country’s financial collapse.

The country can now move to realize its full potential as a sovereign and prosperous nation, free from corruption and dedicated to the security of its citizens, helping unlock billions needed in urgent foreign assistance. The Lebanese deserve a better future—and now begins the difficult task of rebuilding a state that is inclusive, united, and committed to reform.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Lebanon that should not be squandered. The next two weeks will be critical as Prime Minister Salam begins the process of forming his government. We are hopeful that the US and the international community will support a new technically competent Lebanese government that prioritizes reclaiming its sovereignty and embarks on a transformative economic and reform program.

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