Key Takeaways:

• Lebanon has formed a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, marking the end of a two-year caretaker period.
• The cabinet, consisting of 24 ministers, is split evenly between Christian and Muslim sects.
• Salam's government aims to implement crucial reforms and regain international confidence amid ongoing economic challenges.
• Hezbollah's influence appears diminished following recent political shifts and a devastating war with Israel.
• The U.S. has actively influenced Lebanon's political landscape, demanding the exclusion of Hezbollah from government roles.

Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced the formation of a new government on Saturday, February 8, 2025, bringing an end to a prolonged period of political inactivity characterized by a caretaker regime. This new cabinet, consisting of 24 ministers and representing a blend of Christian and Muslim sects, emerges amid a challenging backdrop of economic turmoil and a fragile ceasefire with Israel following a devastating conflict affecting the country and the militant group Hezbollah. President Joseph Aoun confirmed the transition of power in an official statement, endorsing the cabinet choices after the resignation of the previous caretaker government. Le Monde reported that Salam pledged a focus on restoring public trust and fostering cooperation with the international community to effectively implement crucial reforms aimed at alleviating the ongoing economic crisis.

Salam, a diplomat with a track record as a former president of the International Court of Justice, highlighted his government's commitment to tackling the rampant corruption that has brought the nation’s economy to its knees, now entrenched in its sixth year of crisis. He acknowledged the need for urgent reforms to access international financial assistance, with funding contingent on significant governmental changes. His remarks underscored a hopeful yet daunting mandate shaped by Lebanon's recent history of political strife and economic distress. Associated Press noted Salam's determination to rebuild devastated southern regions and restore stability along Lebanon's borders.

Despite Hezbollah's historically dominant political role, the new government reflects an evident shift away from its influence, marking a significant political recalibration influenced by external pressures, particularly from the U.S. U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus emphasized the importance of excluding Hezbollah from government dealings, indicating the U.S.'s satisfaction with the newly formed cabinet that does not directly include the group. The cabinet's establishment is viewed as a critical step towards re-engaging with international stakeholders and securing needed reconstruction funds. Los Angeles Times indicated that this realignment aims to enhance Lebanon's geopolitical ties, especially with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states concerned about Hezbollah's military capabilities.

The newly appointed ministers are tasked with drafting a policy statement to outline the government's priorities, which will be presented for a vote of confidence in parliament within the next 30 days. This momentous formation of the government, described by the United Nations as ushering in a "new and brighter chapter for Lebanon," symbolizes both a response to immense internal challenges and international expectations for reform and stability. Channel News Asia, among other sources, detailed Salam's intentions to navigate Lebanon through these turbulent waters, establishing a clearer pathway towards stability and recovery.

To read more, check the following articles: HuffPost, South China Morning Post, Al Jazeera.