Lebanon government named after two-year caretaker cabinet

February 08, 2025 / 6:31 PM

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun signing a decree at the presidential palace in Baabda, east of Beirut, announcing new government

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Lebanon's presidency announced on Saturday that a new government had been formed, after more than two years in which an interim cabinet had led the crisis-hit country.

Presidential decree forms new government

President Joseph Aoun signed a decree "to form a government of 24 ministers," as reported in a post on X. Additionally, two other decrees were issued: one accepting the resignation of caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati's government and another appointing Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to form the new government.

End of political stalemate

After more than two years of political deadlock, Hezbollah's weakened position in its war with Israel enabled former army chief Aoun to be elected president and Salam approved as prime minister.

New government's challenges

The newly formed government faces a daunting task of implementing reforms needed to unlock billions of dollars in aid from international donors following years of economic crisis. It must also oversee a fragile Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire and rebuild the war-scarred country.

Critical tasks ahead

Additionally, the government will review agreements, including those with the International Monetary Fund, and prepare for parliamentary elections scheduled for next year.