Lebanon finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with a prolonged presidential vacuum that has exacerbated the country’s political and economic collapse.

At the heart of this impasse lies Hezbollah, a group whose allegiance to Iran has deepened Lebanon’s entanglement in regional conflicts. Hezbollah’s recent skirmishes with Israel are not only a dangerous distraction but a stark reminder of how its actions consistently undermine Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability.

Hezbollah’s allies, most notably Speaker Nabih Berri, have played an instrumental role in perpetuating this crisis. By leveraging their influence within parliament, they have blocked the election of a president, plunging Lebanon into unprecedented economic turmoil. This deliberate vacuum serves Tehran’s interests, as it ensures that no leadership emerges in Lebanon that might challenge Iran’s proxy control.

Meanwhile, ordinary Lebanese citizens bear the brunt of this paralysis, facing poverty, inflation, and a crumbling state infrastructure. In this fraught context, the name Joseph Aoun, the current commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), has emerged as a beacon of hope. Aoun enjoys widespread respect both within Lebanon and internationally. For years, the United States has been a steadfast supporter of the LAF, providing training and aid to bolster its role as a stabilizing force in the region.

Aoun’s leadership has been a crucial factor in maintaining what little order remains amid Lebanon’s chaos, making him a strong candidate for the presidency. The United States and its allies recognize the strategic importance of Lebanon and its stability for the broader Middle East. While they believe Joseph Aoun is the ideal candidate, they have consistently emphasized that the decision lies with the Lebanese parliament and people.

Washington’s role in this process will be to guide and support Lebanon, not dictate its outcomes. This presidential election is not merely a political process; it is a battle for Lebanon’s future. Will it continue to be held hostage by Hezbollah and its allies, or will it reclaim its sovereignty and chart a path toward stability and prosperity?

The world is watching, and the Lebanese people deserve leaders who will put their interests above foreign agendas. The time for decisive action is now. Lebanon cannot afford to remain in this state of limbo. It is imperative for the Lebanese parliament to prioritize national interests and elect a president capable of restoring confidence in governance, reviving the economy, and asserting Lebanon’s independence on the regional and global stage.