BEIRUT — Lebanon has officially formed its first full-fledged government since 2022, marking a significant political shift amid ongoing challenges. President Joseph Aoun announced the new cabinet formation on February 8, following the acceptance of the prior caretaker government's resignation. The newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated his intention to “restore confidence between citizens and the state, and between Lebanon and the international community,” while tackling the severe economic crisis that has gripped the nation for the past six years.

Salam emphasized the necessity of reforms, declaring, “Reform is the only path to a true salvation.” This new government, comprised of 24 ministers split equally between Christian and Muslim sects, also addresses the reconstruction of areas devastated by the recent conflict with Israel, which ended under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in November.

Amid these developments, Lebanon faces a crippling economic downturn, with its banks severely impacted, the electricity sector in shambles, and many citizens unable to access their savings. Salam, a diplomat and former president of the International Court of Justice, has committed to pursuing judicial and economic reforms to navigate this tumultuous period.

Interestingly, Hezbollah did not officially endorse Salam as prime minister; however, the group did engage in negotiations regarding their designated roles in government, adhering to the country's power-sharing system. This situation unfolded even as U.S. envoy Morgan Ortagus defined clear “red lines” for Lebanon’s government, emphasizing that Hezbollah should not have any role within it—a comment that drew considerable backlash from various Lebanese factions who perceived it as external interference.

Despite Hezbollah's robust political presence, the new government's formation signals a shift away from leaders closely aligned with the group. This action is part of broader efforts to improve ties with Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia, who have expressed concern regarding Hezbollah's political ascendancy over the last decade.

As Lebanon's new cabinet drafts a policy statement that outlines its intended reforms, it now requires a vote of confidence from the Lebanese parliament to be fully empowered. This transition comes at a time of potential change as the country seeks to emerge from years of political stagnation and crisis management.

In early January, Lebanon elected Joseph Aoun, who is believed to have U.S. backing, to the presidency. He has expressed intentions to consolidate state authority over arms, implicitly addressing Hezbollah’s military capabilities.

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