The Lebanese Parliament has voted in favor of Nawaf Salam’s new government, with 95 out of 128 parliamentarians expressing confidence. U.S. officials congratulated the new administration, emphasizing the need for economic reforms. Salam’s tenure at the UN is marked by his harsh criticism of Israel, amid a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah that continues to be tested.
On Wednesday, the Lebanese Parliament voted to express confidence in the newly formed government, led by Nawaf Salam, who was appointed in mid-January. Out of 128 parliamentarians, 95 supported the administration, despite Salam, a former president of the International Court of Justice, asserting that only the Lebanese Armed Forces should defend the nation. Notably, the Hezbollah bloc in Parliament backed Salam’s cabinet, although they did not endorse his position as prime minister.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce offered her congratulations to both Prime Minister Salam and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. “For too long, the Lebanese people were denied a governing body that could unite the country and rebuild Lebanese state institutions,” she remarked. She reaffirmed America’s commitment to support the new government as it undertakes essential economic reforms and aid to the Lebanese Armed Forces amid ongoing security challenges.
Salam’s previous role as Lebanon’s ambassador to the United Nations included voting against Israel consistently, condemning it 210 times over 11 years. He has accused the Israeli leadership of engaging in “ethnic cleansing” and has referred to Israel as an “apartheid” state. Furthermore, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah was established on November 27, yet Hezbollah has reportedly breached this agreement on multiple occasions.
The Lebanese Parliament has shown its support for the new government led by Nawaf Salam, reflecting a step towards a unified governing body for Lebanon. With backing from Hezbollah, the administration aims to implement critical economic reforms, as reaffirmed by U.S. officials. Salam’s controversial history regarding Israel may influence regional dynamics amidst ongoing security issues between Israel and Hezbollah.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
