The discussion about the American role is resurging significantly with the upcoming deadline to elect a new president of the republic, as this matter has a large external dimension. Washington is considered the primary voter in the presidency; while it cannot bring in a president on its own, it can prevent the election of any president it does not approve of.
In recent days, there has been a flow of some American aid to the army, which consists of ammunition and troop transport vehicles, along with the financial grant that the army leadership has requested to support its personnel. All these actions have clear implications, indicating that chaos is not allowed in Lebanon. This coincides with American support for negotiations between Lebanon and Israel regarding maritime borders, which Washington is keen to see succeed.
This situation positively reflects on the upcoming deadlines, particularly the election of a new president. Information suggests that Washington does not want a presidential vacuum and is advocating for the re-establishment of institutional work, exerting pressure in this direction. Therefore, it will have a decisive say in the coming weeks before the presidential deadline approaches a vacuum.
Currently, Washington is cautious about getting involved with presidential candidates' names, but it has specified particular criteria that have become known to everyone. Consequently, Hezbollah's attempt to monopolize the presidential decision will lead nowhere. Observers of Lebanese and Middle Eastern politics are betting on the signing of the Iranian nuclear agreement and the success of border demarcation negotiations between Lebanon and Israel as factors that could ease tensions.
Washington will not remain passive when the presidential deadline arrives, and it will push for a president who does not replicate Aoun's image. Therefore, those wanting to understand the presidential landscape should monitor American activities closely.
