New Lebanon president starts consultations on naming PM

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun began parliamentary consultations in Baadba on Monday to designate a prime minister responsible for forming a government to address the country’s ongoing challenges.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Judge Nawaf Salam, a leading candidate supported by anti-Hezbollah lawmakers, emerged as the frontrunners. The first round of talks saw 12 independents back Salam, seven support Mikati and two choose neither.

The consultations follow Aoun’s election last week, ending a two-year presidential vacancy, with international pressure for swift progress. Lebanon has been facing an economic crisis and requires reforms to secure international aid. The new prime minister will be tasked with navigating these challenges and rebuilding the country’s political stability.