it.euronews.com
Lebanon Elects Army Commander Joseph Aoun as President
The Lebanese parliament elected army commander Joseph Aoun as president on Thursday, ending a two-year deadlock after 12 previous failed attempts; he secured 71 votes in the second round, following 71 votes in the first round, surpassing the simple majority needed after failing to achieve the two-thirds majority; his election is supported by the USA and Saudi Arabia and comes after a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
- How did the political landscape and the actions of other candidates influence Aoun's election?
- Aoun's election signifies a potential turning point for Lebanon, given the US and Saudi Arabia's support. His win follows a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, necessitating post-conflict reconstruction. The election also saw the withdrawal of Suleiman Frangieh, who endorsed Aoun, easing his path to victory.
- What is the significance of Joseph Aoun's election as Lebanon's president after a two-year deadlock?
- The Lebanese parliament elected army commander Joseph Aoun as president, ending a two-year deadlock. Aoun secured 71 votes in the second round, surpassing the simple majority needed after failing to achieve the two-thirds majority in the first round. This election marks the culmination of 12 previous failed attempts to elect a successor to Michel Aoun.
- What major challenges and opportunities will Aoun face in leading Lebanon through its current crises?
- Aoun's presidency presents significant challenges. He must implement the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, secure reconstruction funds, and revive Lebanon's struggling economy. The country's ongoing economic crisis and limited progress on IMF bailout reforms present major obstacles to his success.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Aoun's election as a positive development, highlighting the support from key allies like the US and Saudi Arabia. The description of the chaotic scenes during the voting process is brief and presented without extensive analysis of the underlying political divisions. The headline, if it existed (not provided in the text), would likely emphasize the resolution of the long-standing political deadlock, potentially downplaying the ongoing challenges.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, although phrases like "considered the preferred candidate" (regarding Aoun) and "spianando apparentemente la strada" (apparently paving the way) subtly suggest a positive assessment of Aoun's victory. While these phrases aren't overtly biased, they could subtly influence reader perception. More neutral phrasing could be used.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the election process and the political maneuvering involved, but provides limited details on the potential impact of Aoun's presidency on ordinary Lebanese citizens. The economic challenges facing Lebanon are mentioned, but the article doesn't delve into the specifics of how Aoun plans to address these issues, or the diverse perspectives on his ability to do so. The article also omits discussion of potential downsides or criticisms of Aoun's election.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified narrative by focusing primarily on the two main contenders, Aoun and Frangieh, while other candidates are mentioned only briefly. This might lead readers to believe the election was a binary choice, overlooking the complexities and nuances of the political landscape.
Sustainable Development Goals
The election of a new president after a two-year deadlock is a significant step towards political stability and strengthening institutions in Lebanon. This directly contributes to SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.