International Court of Justice Nawaf Salam Appointed next prime minister of Lebanon’s

International Court of Justice Nawaf Salam Appointed next prime minister of Lebanon’s

In a surprising turn of events, the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) top judge, Nawaf Salam, has been designated as Lebanon’s next prime minister, signaling a potential shift in the country’s long-standing political impasse.

On Monday, the office of newly elected President Joseph Aoun tasked Salam with forming a government, following his endorsement by a substantial majority of lawmakers during consultations with the president.

The designation of Salam, a reformist Sunni Muslim, marks a pivotal moment for Lebanon after over two years of political deadlock, characterized by a vacant presidency and a caretaker cabinet managing day-to-day affairs. The political vacuum was only resolved with Aoun’s election to the presidency on January 9, after significant pressure from Saudi Arabia.

Nawaf Salam, who has previously been a candidate for prime minister on two occasions, is well-regarded internationally for his judicial career. He gained widespread recognition last year when he was elected as the head of the ICJ, overseeing major international cases, including South Africa’s accusation of genocide against Israel. Salam’s legal background and reformist agenda have made him a popular figure among some Lebanese factions who seek change.

Salam’s nomination has been seen by many as a decisive moment in Lebanon’s political history, with some media outlets likening it to a “tsunami” in terms of the political shockwaves it has caused. Prior to his designation, Najib Mikati, the incumbent caretaker prime minister, was widely expected to secure the position once more. However, Salam’s unexpected emergence as a candidate on Sunday shifted the political dynamic.

Salam’s designation has been met with resistance from Hezbollah and its allies, particularly the Amal Movement, both of which had backed Mikati. Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc leader, Mohammad Raad, voiced his concerns, stating that the designation of Salam had caused further “division” within the country and expressing hope that the new cabinet would adhere to Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing system.

Lebanon’s political system is structured around a confessional agreement, ensuring representation from various sects, including Sunni and Shia Muslims, as well as Christians. However, Salam’s nomination faces challenges, as no Shia lawmakers have endorsed his appointment, potentially leading to confrontations as he moves forward with efforts to form a government.

As Salam begins the process of forming a new government, his efforts will be scrutinized by both domestic and international observers. His ability to navigate Lebanon’s complex sectarian landscape and broker a consensus among the country’s key political players will be crucial for his success.

This political development comes at a time when Lebanon is grappling with severe economic and social crises, with the new government tasked with implementing critical reforms to stabilize the country. The next few weeks will be critical as Salam attempts to forge alliances and establish a functional government amid the ongoing political fragmentation.