Lebanon announced the formation of a new government on Saturday, led by Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam and consisting of 24 ministers, including representatives from Hezbollah, despite U.S. opposition to the Iran-backed group's participation.
The announcement follows weeks of political negotiations and comes amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis and post-war reconstruction efforts.
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Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam meet at the Presidential Palace in Baabda
(Photo: Reuters)
According to Lebanon’s LBCI network, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, leader of the Shiite Amal Movement and an ally of Hezbollah, met over the weekend with U.S. Deputy Envoy to the Middle East Morgan Ortagus.
During her visit, Ortagus reiterated Washington’s firm stance against Hezbollah’s involvement in the government, saying, “Hezbollah cannot be part of the Lebanese government. Their era is over.”
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She further noted that the U.S. was working with Lebanon and Israel on redeploying Lebanese forces in southern Lebanon, adhering to a February 18 deadline. “We are not afraid of Hezbollah because they have been militarily defeated,” Ortagus added.
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U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus meets with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun
(Photo: Reuters)
The newly formed government includes five ministers from the Shiite bloc, which comprises Hezbollah and Amal, alongside other political factions. It also features five female ministers overseeing key portfolios such as education, welfare, tourism, youth and sports and environmental affairs.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the new government, describing its members as "non-partisan" and committed to serving all Lebanese citizens. “Reform is the only way to save the country. Rebuilding the south is not a promise; it is a commitment,” Prime Minister Salam added.
Before assuming full authority, the new government must draft a policy statement outlining its priorities, which will require a parliamentary vote of confidence. The first cabinet meeting is set for Tuesday. The government faces significant challenges, including stabilizing the economy, tackling corruption and ending Lebanon’s two-year presidential vacuum.
The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon issued a statement welcoming the formation of the new government, emphasizing the need for governance reforms.
Egypt’s Foreign Ministry also congratulated Lebanon, calling the establishment of the government an "important step toward fulfilling the aspirations of the Lebanese people and preserving Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity, security and stability."