Lebanon has brought an end to a two year power vacuum with the election of Joseph Aoun, the country's army chief, as president. His candidacy was backed by several key players, including the US, France and Saudi Arabia. Together with the collapse of Assad in Syria and a weakened Hezbollah, there are many who hope this election could serve as the necessary spark to rebuild the war-torn Eastern Mediterranean country. Sean Mathews, a journalist for the Middle East Eye covering the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this election is so important, and what challenges lie ahead for Lebanon and its new president. 

You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:

Army chief elected Lebanon's president after years of deadlock

It’s time for Lebanon’s leaders to take responsibility for the country’s future

US dangles Saudi Arabia's cash to push candidate for Lebanon's presidency

Meloni hails ‘excellent’ Italy-Greece relations, announces February conference

Trump, Meloni and Greece’s moves

Kurdish-led SDF says civilians killed as Turkey strikes Syrian dam