Saudi Support Essential for Lebanon’s Reconstruction and Stability
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia symbolizes Lebanon’s return to the Arab fold after years of Iranian influence. With high expectations for support, Aoun seeks aid for reconstruction and stability, while promising reforms and disarmament of Hezbollah. Saudi Arabia’s backing is essential, but it demands structural reforms to combat corruption within Lebanon’s political system.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to visit Saudi Arabia, marking it as his inaugural foreign trip. This visit aims to reaffirm Lebanon’s return to the Arab community, a move that mirrors the new Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who similarly chose Saudi Arabia as his first destination. Both nations, previously under Iranian influence, are now seeking to reconnect with their Arab heritage.
High expectations surround Saudi Arabia from the Lebanese populace, recalling the Kingdom’s previous significant support following Lebanon’s civil war. Saudi Arabia provided crucial political, diplomatic, and financial resources, which ebbed after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005, leading to increased Iranian sway via Hezbollah. This Iranian control has been detrimental, fostering instability rather than encouraging state-building or economic growth.
As Iranian influence wanes, Lebanon is striving to extricate itself from foreign conflicts, as evident in Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s mention of the need for neutrality in regional disputes. Aoun’s recent meetings with Iranian officials reaffirm that Lebanon will not serve as an arena for external warfare but is intent on reestablishing its Arab ties. What remains to be seen is the practical implication of this newfound direction.
Both leaderships have pledged reforms and a revitalized economy to their constituents and the international community, including disarming militias like Hezbollah. However, they simultaneously stressed the need to liberate Lebanon from Israeli occupation, indicating a multifaceted approach to national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
President Aoun will arrive in Riyadh equipped with a strategy, seeking assistance from Saudi Arabia. Lebanon’s capabilities alone are insufficient for issues like Israeli withdrawal, which necessitates external support. The previous leverage that arose from the Syrian refugee crisis has diminished, making Saudi backing pivotal for Lebanon’s stability.
Saudi Arabia, having played a significant role in mediating conflicts in the past, holds considerable influence in facilitating Lebanon’s stability. Nevertheless, current Saudi assistance will not be given unconditionally; it hinges on Lebanon implementing structural reforms. The expectation is that these reforms will dismantle corrupt practices, particularly concerning Hezbollah and longstanding political elites.
To achieve long-term stability, Lebanon requires security guarantees, particularly against Israeli incursions. Aoun’s reconstruction requests during his visit are crucial for rebuilding the south while integrating the Shiite community. However, without sincere reforms aimed at combating corruption, Saudi Arabia may be reticent to provide financial support.
Although the new Lebanese government has received initial endorsements from the political elite, potential conflicts may arise if it addresses entrenched privileges. Such conflicts, nonetheless, may be necessary interventions to rescue Lebanon from its ongoing crisis. With no alternative but Saudi Arabia for support, Aoun and Salam must demonstrate a commitment and ability to deliver on their promises to secure the necessary backing.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia embodies Lebanon’s strategic shift back towards the Arab world, while emphasizing the necessity of Saudi support for national reconstruction and stability. Confronting Iranian influence, implementing political reforms, and securing financial aid are paramount to reinvigorating Lebanon’s economy and sovereignty. The cooperation with Saudi Arabia will be crucial for Lebanon’s future, contingent upon substantial structural changes within its political landscape.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
