In Beirut, Lebanon’s President expressed optimism on Monday regarding the strengthening of diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia during his visit to the kingdom. This trip marks the first by a Lebanese head of state to Riyadh in six years, signifying a potential shift in relations that have been tense for some time.
Saudi Arabia’s concerns have primarily revolved around the Iran-supported militant group Hezbollah and Lebanon’s stance on various regional matters. In response, the kingdom implemented a travel and import embargo on Lebanon. The election of Joseph Aoun as president and the appointment of Nawaf Salam, a former diplomat and leader of the International Criminal Court, as prime minister represent significant challenges to Hezbollah’s influence.
As diplomatic relations begin to improve, Lebanon is hopeful that Saudi Arabia will lift its travel restrictions, which would aid the economically struggling nation. The hope is also that Riyadh will resume trade and contribute to Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts, particularly after the aftermath of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel devastated parts of southern and eastern Lebanon.
During his visit, Aoun emphasized the importance of the relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia and expressed gratitude for the kingdom’s support in ensuring Lebanon’s stability and the proper functioning of its constitutional institutions.
The strained ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia previously led to a diplomatic fallout in 2021. Riyadh had voiced its disapproval over Lebanon’s inability to curb drug trafficking and imposed sanctions following critical comments by Lebanon’s then-information minister regarding Saudi Arabia’s military actions in Yemen against the Houthis.
In a recent interview, Aoun revealed that Saudi Arabia has agreed to reactivate a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army. Lebanon is currently attempting to bolster its armed forces and secure its borders as part of an uneasy U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement with Israel.
The president’s brief visit, his inaugural overseas trip after assuming office in January when he was chosen by the Lebanese parliament, follows a visit by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Beirut, indicating a renewed engagement between the two nations.
