Lebanon's Political Landscape Amidst US Presidential Transition
As the US approaches the official handover from President Joe Biden to former President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, Lebanon finds itself at a critical juncture. The recent victory of Trump in the presidential elections has sparked intense speculation regarding the future of the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's determination to maintain military pressure in the region raises concerns about potential escalations, particularly with the appointment of Yisrael Katz as Minister of Defense and Gideon Sa'ar as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The transitional period leading up to Trump's inauguration is marked by uncertainty, with political analysts in Lebanon warning that it could be one of the most perilous phases in the ongoing conflict. Trump's previous commitments to the Arab and Muslim community, which included promises to halt the war in Lebanon and foster peace in the Middle East, contrast sharply with the current military strategies being employed by Israel. Analysts predict that Netanyahu may intensify military actions to gain leverage for future negotiations as the region braces for possible shifts in power dynamics.
The Potential for Escalation or Settlement
Political analyst Amin Qamouria suggests that the time between now and Trump's inauguration could witness significant developments, potentially exacerbating tensions in the region. President Biden, enjoying full authority without electoral constraints, faces a choice: either to halt military operations or to complicate Trump's entry into office by leaving him with a series of complex issues to address. The possibility of further military engagements, particularly involving Iran and Lebanon, looms large as the situation in Gaza deteriorates.
Qamouria notes that this transitional phase resembles a
keywords:[
Lebanon's political landscape
US presidential transition
Trump presidency
Israeli military operations
Netanyahu
Biden
Lebanon war
Middle East peace
regional stability
