Today, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji met with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi. The meeting was described as both direct and cordial, with Araghchi emphasizing Iran’s support for Lebanese independence and noting the two countries’ historical relations.
The visit also touched on Iran’s support for Lebanese stability, the removal of Israeli forces on Lebanese soil, and the opening of a new page in both countries’ relationships.
Salam and the Government’s Stances
In what is considered a historical stance by many, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has recently reiterated the need for the state to be the sole carrier of arms. Salam also added that “the era of exporting the Iranian revolution is over”.
This represents a significant move in defiance of non-armed groups carrying weapons and launching military activities outside of the scope of the state’s strategic decisions and official apparatuses.
At the same time, Lebanon has also sought to develop its relations with neighboring Syria, particularly after the fall of the Assad regime and the formation of a new government under the leadership of current president Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Lebanon’s economic relations with Syria could witness further enhancement with the recent United States administration decision to lift sanctions off Syria. The move could open the door for more expanded trade and sector-specific relationships such as in fuel, electricity, reconstruction, and others.
In addition, Lebanon is also witnessing what is described as its return to the Arab fold. Recently, the United Arab Emirates lifted its ban on citizens to travel to Lebanon, which was imposed in 2021. Broader analysis also indicates that Lebanon is seeking to engage a range of Gulf, regional, international actors in its efforts for socioeconomic rejuvenation.
Obstacles Ahead
Lebanon’s ability to improve its regional standing and international relations continue to face numerous obstacles.
On one hand, the country’s economic reforms, particularly at the level of the banking sector, continue to be a main hurdle. The country’s politico-banking elites have repeatedly blocked any attempts for substantial, transparent reforms in the sector. It was only after significant pressure that the Lebanese parliament approved the amendment of the banking secrecy law.
These reforms remain crucial conditions for many actors and international financial institutions to engage with Lebanon and reach specific financial agreements.
On the other, Lebanon continues to deal with a range of legal, political, and arms-related files that face consistent deadlock. This includes matters such as the position of Hezbollah and its arms, and the prospects of the current government in successfully establishing state monopoly of arms.
The enthusiasm that many local and international actors felt with the election of a president after more than two years of presidential vacuum and the formation of a new government were quickly met with skepticism with regard to their ability to perform in the face of the country’s entrenched political, sectarian and banking elites.
Erasing this doubt and restoring trust with international actors remain main challenges for the current government, and such developments can only be achieved by showcasing effective solutions to deadlocked files and progress on the level of socioeconomic prospects.
