Aoun: Army Chief, Lebanon's President

Sophie Wakehurst

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Post on Jan 10, 2025

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Aoun: From Army Chief to Lebanon's President – A Complex Legacy

Michel Aoun's tenure as President of Lebanon, from 2016 to 2022, remains a period of significant complexity and controversy within the nation's history. His journey to the highest office, marked by a distinguished military career and a long political struggle, shaped both his presidency and its lasting impact on Lebanon. Understanding Aoun requires examining his multifaceted past and analyzing the challenges he faced during his time in power.

From Military Leadership to Political Exile

Aoun's rise began within the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). His military career showcased a steady progression through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the LAF in 1989. This period coincided with the Lebanese Civil War, a deeply fractured and violent conflict. Aoun's stance during the war, often characterized as fiercely independent and nationalist, solidified his image as a strongman figure amongst certain segments of the population. However, his actions also brought him into direct conflict with Syria, a powerful external actor heavily involved in Lebanese politics. This clash ultimately led to his exile in France, where he remained for many years, maintaining a strong, albeit distant, influence on Lebanese politics.

The Return and Presidential Victory

Aoun's eventual return to Lebanon marked a pivotal moment. His political party, the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), had gained considerable support, positioning him as a viable contender for the presidency. His election in 2016, after a long period of political deadlock, was seen by many as a significant development, representing the potential for stability and national unity. However, his presidency was far from straightforward.

A Presidency Marked by Challenges

Aoun's time as president was dominated by a series of formidable challenges. The Lebanese economy faced a severe crisis, marked by hyperinflation, currency devaluation, and widespread poverty. The 2020 Beirut port explosion, a catastrophic event that caused widespread devastation and loss of life, further exacerbated the already fragile situation. Additionally, Aoun's presidency was characterized by political divisions and accusations of corruption, hindering his ability to implement effective reforms and address the nation's multifaceted problems. His close ties with Hezbollah, a powerful Shia political and military organization, also proved controversial and contributed to the deepening political polarization within the country.

A Contentious Legacy

Michel Aoun's legacy as President of Lebanon remains deeply contested. While some praise his strong leadership and nationalist stance during the Civil War and his role in securing the presidency after years of political stalemate, others criticize his handling of the economic crisis, his perceived inaction following the Beirut port explosion, and his alignment with Hezbollah. His presidency undeniably coincided with a period of profound crisis for Lebanon, leaving behind a complex and multifaceted legacy that continues to shape the nation's political landscape and future. Further research and analysis are needed to fully comprehend his impact on Lebanon's trajectory.

Keywords: Michel Aoun, Lebanon, President of Lebanon, Lebanese Civil War, Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), Hezbollah, Lebanese economy, Beirut port explosion, Lebanese politics, Commander-in-Chief, political crisis.