Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia exemplifies Lebanon’s commitment to strengthening ties with Arab nations as it seeks to recover from Iranian influence. High expectations are placed on Saudi support for political and economic reforms, particularly regarding disarmament of Hezbollah and reconstruction endeavors. This assistance will be conditional on Lebanon’s progress in curbing corruption and implementing structural reforms.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to visit Saudi Arabia, marking a significant diplomatic move that reaffirms Lebanon’s alignment with Arab nations. This visit comes shortly after the new Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa chose to visit Saudi Arabia as well, symbolizing a collective shift away from Iranian influence and towards revitalizing relations in the Arab world.
Following years of Iranian domination through groups like Hezbollah, Lebanon seeks to re-establish itself as an integral part of Arab affairs. The Lebanese populace has high hopes for Saudi assistance, reminiscent of post-civil war recovery when Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in Lebanon’s political and financial resurgence.
However, the support from Riyadh declined after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005, which coincided with Iran’s increased grip on Lebanese politics. The growing influence of Hezbollah fostered a clientelist political network that undermined state-building efforts and allowed Lebanon to become a hotspot for criminal activities, including money laundering and drug trafficking.
With Iranian influence on the decline, Lebanese leaders are emphasizing the need for neutrality in regional conflicts, particularly regarding Iran. Both President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam have promised reforms and outlined plans to disarm militias, including Hezbollah, while also vowing to address the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories.
Aoun’s upcoming discussions in Riyadh are expected to center on specific requests for support, vital for executing his reform strategies. The Lebanese military lacks the strength to compel Israeli withdrawal, rendering Saudi diplomatic influence essential for ensuring stability in Lebanon and executing the necessary reforms.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s willingness to assist is contingent on Lebanon’s commitment to structural reforms. Aid will not be unconditional as previous support was, and any funds may only be released upon progress in combating corruption and addressing Hezbollah’s presence.
While rising tensions between political factions over the reform agenda could be a concern, they may also provide a long-awaited opportunity for genuine state reform. Saudi Arabia remains the most significant ally for Lebanon, with Aoun’s leadership requiring the support of strong external partners to succeed in its ambitious reform agenda.
In summary, Lebanon’s future stability heavily relies on Saudi Arabia’s support, emphasized by President Aoun’s upcoming visit. The Lebanese government aims to reform and disarm militias, particularly Hezbollah, to detach from Iranian influence and re-enter the Arab fold. However, any financial aid from Saudi Arabia will depend on Lebanon’s commitment to substantial reforms, marking a crucial juncture for the nation’s governance and stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
