Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun appointed renowned diplomat Nawaf Salam as the country's new prime minister on Monday, marking a critical step toward resolving the nation's prolonged political gridlock. Salam, currently president of the International Court of Justice, secured 84 parliamentary votes during consultations—far surpassing former PM Najib Mikati's nine votes. However, 35 lawmakers abstained from endorsing any candidate, highlighting lingering challenges in forming a stable government. 🏛️
🔍 Experts describe Salam's appointment as a 'high-stakes gamble' amid Lebanon's economic collapse and social unrest. 'He brings international credibility, but unity remains elusive,' said Beirut-based analyst Layal Mansour. With inflation exceeding 200% and public services crumbling, pressure mounts for Salam to swiftly assemble a cabinet capable of enacting reforms. 💼
⚡ Why it matters: Lebanon has been without a fully functional government for over a year, deepening one of the world’s worst financial crises since the 19th century. Salam’s legal expertise and global reputation could attract foreign aid—but only if he bridges divides among Lebanon’s fractured political factions. 🌟
