The political vacuum in Lebanon is a direct consequence of the intertwining of local politics with regional conflicts, particularly the influence of Iran and the United States.
The call for a new president reflects the urgent need for stability and governance in Lebanon, but the divisions among political factions hinder progress.
Lebanon's historical sectarian divisions continue to shape its political landscape, complicating efforts to elect a president who could unify the country.
If the political class fails to elect a president soon, Lebanon may face a resurgence of internal conflict, exacerbated by the ongoing war with Israel.
The continued absence of effective governance may result in increased instability, leading to a potential humanitarian crisis as the state struggles to provide basic services.
Without a unifying political agenda, Lebanon risks becoming a battleground for external powers, further complicating its internal dynamics.
The ongoing Israeli war on Lebanon has exacerbated the country's political and constitutional crisis, which has persisted since the absence of a president since 2022. This vacuum is attributed to a corrupt political class heavily influenced by external powers, primarily the regional conflict between Iranian-backed groups and U.S.-aligned forces. The recent escalation in violence has reignited discussions about electing a new president, with calls from key political figures, including caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, emphasizing the urgent need for a leader to navigate the current turmoil.
The Quintet Committee, comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, France, and the U.S., has increased diplomatic efforts to stabilize Lebanon amidst the conflict. However, political factions remain divided, with some pushing for a president aligned with U.S. interests, while others, backed by Iran, demand a leader who supports Hezbollah and the resistance against Israel.
The political landscape in Lebanon reflects deep-rooted sectarian divisions and a historical struggle for power among various factions. This has hindered the establishment of effective governance and a functional state apparatus. The failure to elect a president is indicative of the broader inability of Lebanese politicians to prioritize national interests over factional and external allegiances.
As the war continues, the potential for internal conflict looms, with concerns about a return to sectarian violence if political leaders do not act decisively to elect a president and restore state functions. The political class's reliance on external powers and the absence of a unified national agenda threaten to plunge Lebanon deeper into crisis.
