BEIRUT__The designation marks a shift in Lebanon’s power dynamics, as Hezbollah had pushed for Najib Mikati to remain in the role.
Lebanon’s newly elected President Joseph Aoun has appointed Nawaf Salam, head of the International Court of Justice, as prime minister after securing majority backing in parliament. The move signals a weakened position for Hezbollah, which had supported caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, following its recent war with Israel and the fall of its ally, Bashar al-Assad, in Syria last month.
Reporting from Beirut, Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr described Nawaf Salam’s appointment as a “symbol of a new era” in Lebanese politics.
“Salam is a newcomer to domestic politics but brings years of international experience, having served as Lebanon’s ambassador to the United Nations. He is widely respected as a judge, lawyer, and diplomat,” Khodr said.
She emphasized that Salam represents change, as his selection by opposition and independent MPs signals a push for a new political order. Unlike the long-standing political class accused of corruption and mismanagement, Salam stands apart from the traditional establishment that has governed Lebanon for decades.
Nawaf Salam’s supporters view him as an impartial figure capable of implementing critical reforms, contrasting with Najib Mikati, who critics say is influenced by Hezbollah.
MP Georges Adwan of the Christian Lebanese Forces party endorsed Salam after meeting President Joseph Aoun, stating, “The era of weapons is over,” and calling on Hezbollah to focus on political work.
Hezbollah, weakened by a recent war with Israel, must withdraw its fighters from southern Lebanon under a ceasefire deal. The national army, previously led by Aoun, and UN peacekeepers are now deploying to the area.
الرئيس اللبناني يعين قاضي محكمة العدل الدولية نواف سلام رئيسا للوزراء
